India, March 3 -- There was a reason why KL Rahul was backed over specialist wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant for a spot in the India XI in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Besides India seeking continuity, the outstanding show in the 2023 ODI World Cup, both as a middle-order batter and a keeper, saw the management keeping their faith in Rahul. While he picked up from where he left two years back, at least with the gloves, his keeping came under scrutiny on Sunday during the Champions Trophy match against New Zealand. The instances even left Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma frustrated.

Defending 249 on a slow and low Dubai track, Indian spinners came to fore, choking New Zealand's run-scoring through the middle overs. However, Kane Williamson lo...