Reports suggest Rishabh Pant might be dropped from the upcoming New Zealand ODIs, potentially opening a spot for Ishan Kishan or Sanju Samson as backup wicketkeeper-batter. While the focus is shifting towards the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's ODI series in January, featuring stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, is generating significant interest. Captain Shubman Gill also returns after injury. Pant's recent ODI participation has been limited since his accident and recovery.