Rishabh Pant’s role in Team India could become even bigger in the coming days. Not only will he be needed with the bat and behind the stumps, but he may also take on more leadership responsibilities. According to reports, the Indian team management has asked Pant to be ready for captaincy.

Pant has already been given charge for the upcoming Test in Guwahati. Now, there is a strong possibility that he may also lead India in the ODI series against South Africa. The main reason behind this change is Shubman Gill’s injury.

Gill, who missed the second Test due to a neck issue, has still not fully recovered. A RevSportz report says specialists recommend at least five to seven days of rest for such an injury. Gill played through pain in the Kolkata Test, and the team does not want to risk a relapse. For now, it is confirmed that he will not play the second Test.

If Gill is ruled out of the ODIs as well, Pant may be handed the captaincy. Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is also unavailable, which makes Pant the most likely choice. However, KL Rahul is another strong contender, so the final call will depend on Gill’s recovery and the team’s assessment.