Team India’s wicketkeeper position is no longer about finding one all-format player. Instead, it has turned into a format-wise puzzle, with selectors juggling nearly eight contenders for effectively three roles across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. The current trend clearly shows that the Indian team management is moving away from the idea of a single, all-format wicketkeeper and is instead assigning defined roles based on skill sets, form, and team balance.
As things stand, no wicketkeeper in India’s setup is guaranteed a place across all three formats, a rare situation for a team that once relied heavily on names like MS Dhoni and later Rishabh Pant.
How India’s wicketkeeper roles are now split by format
In ODIs, KL Rahul has emerged as the clear first-choice wicketkeeper. His calm approach, reliability under pressure, and ability to bat in the top and middle order make him ideal for the 50-over format. However, Rahul is no longer seen as a long-term option in Tests behind the stumps, with his red-ball role now limited strictly to batting.
In Tests, the responsibility belongs almost entirely to Rishabh Pant. Despite limited white-ball action since his comeback, Pant remains India’s most impactful Test wicketkeeper-batter. His counter-attacking style, comfort against pace and spin, and leadership value have made him indispensable in red-ball cricket. At the same time, selectors appear reluctant to rush him back into ODIs, especially with multiple white-ball specialists available.
For T20Is, Sanju Samson has carved out a niche. His clean hitting, ability to bat through the middle overs, and improved consistency have helped him become a preferred T20 option. However, Samson’s ODI chances remain slim due to stiff competition and team combination issues.
Where do Jurel, Kishan, and Jitesh fit in?
Behind the format specialists, India have a strong second line of wicketkeepers. Dhruv Jurel is viewed as the all-format backup, especially for Tests. His calm temperament, tidy glove work, and recent red-ball performances have impressed the selectors, even if he is not yet a first-choice pick in limited-overs cricket.
Ishan Kishan remains one of the most flexible options in the setup. A left-handed batter who can open or bat in the middle order, Kishan is firmly in contention for ODIs and T20Is. His recent domestic form and explosive scoring ability keep him very much in the white-ball conversation.
Then there is Jitesh Sharma, a pure T20 specialist. His role is clear aggressive finishing. While he is not in the ODI or Test picture, his power-hitting and intent-driven approach make him a strong option for T20 squads, especially as India looks to build depth ahead of major tournaments.
The bigger picture
India’s wicketkeeper debate is no longer about who is the best overall. It is about who fits best in each format. With three formats and close to eight contenders, selection calls will continue to be tough, but this depth gives India flexibility, security, and strong competition going forward.
