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Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian team management will feel confident heading into the ICC WTC Final against New Zealand with Rishabh Pant continuing his superb batting form. The wicket keeper batsman batted splendidly on Day 1 of the intra squad match at Ageas Bowl ahead of ICC WTC Final on Friday. Pant was in sublime touch during his knock against the likes of Shami, Bumrah, Ishant and Siraj

In a video posted by BCCI on its social media handles, Pant is seen raising his bat at the end of the first day’s play.

Pant has been in terrific touch at the nets as well. He was seen in an aggressive mode while batting at the nets in Southampton. Pant’s form will be very crucial for Team India to do well in ICC WTC Final and the test series against England. He had scored a hundred in India’s last tour to England, during the Oval test. He also scored a quick fire hundred in the fourth test against Joe Root’s team at Ahmedabad

As far as the preparations for the upcoming WTC Final are concerned this is the only match practice that Virat Kohli and his boys will get. It looked like Shubman Gill is all set to open the batting with Rohit Sharma as both batted together in the intra squad match. There is unlikely to be any changes in middle order with Pujara, Kohli, Rahane and Pant to play. As far as fast bowlers are concerned, Ishant, Shami, Bumrah and Siraj was seen bowling indicating the choice will be among these four bowlers. Ravichandran Ashwin will be the main spinner alongside Ravindra Jadeja, who will play the all rounder’s role

The ICC WTC Final between India and New Zealand will be played at the Ageas Bowl from June 18