After a gruelling 15 months on the sidelines recovering from a car accident, Rishabh Pant is finally ready to reclaim his place on the field. The swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman will be leading the Delhi Capitals in their IPL 2024 opener against the Punjab Kings this Saturday in Mohali. The accident in December 2022 left Pant with significant injuries, and doctors initially predicted a lengthy rehabilitation period.
However, Pant’s unwavering determination surprised everyone, including the medical staff who oversaw his recovery. His sheer willpower fueled a remarkable comeback, exceeding expectations with his swift return to full fitness. Pant’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. The BCCI cleared him to play earlier this month, paving the way for his official appointment as the Delhi Capitals’ captain for IPL 2024.
This leadership role comes after Australian opener David Warner captained the team in Pant’s absence last season. Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting is thrilled to have Pant back in action. Describing him as “back and ready to play,” Ponting revealed that Pant’s training sessions have been so intense that he sometimes spends an excessive amount of time batting, needing to be “dragged out of the nets” to avoid burnout.
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“We had a week’s training in Vizag before coming here and trust me Rishabh is back and ready to play,” Ricky Ponting said. “He is batting and moving behind the stumps beautifully. Sometimes he bats too much and I have to drag him out of nets,” he added with a chuckle, highlighting Pant’s infectious enthusiasm.
“I’ve seen where his game is at, and don’t be surprised if something special happens tomorrow,” Ricky Ponting continued, praising Pant’s positive attitude and team spirit. “His attitude and smile and what he wants to do for the team is infectious. Everyone wants to be like Rishabh.”
Pant’s absence was deeply felt by the Delhi Capitals last season, who finished second-last in the points table. Ponting believes Pant’s return will be a game-changer for the team.
“We are about to start an IPL, it’s really an exciting time of the year,” Ricky Ponting said. “It becomes more exciting when your captain is back in your team. Last year, we missed him. He is our leader. He is the heartbeat of this franchise and having him back is going to make this team a lot stronger.”
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With a strong team and meticulous preparation under their belt, Ricky Ponting is confident that the Delhi Capitals are primed for a successful season. “Make no mistake, we have got a great team this year,” he declared. “Our preparations have been absolutely perfect. We are just looking to topping it off today, and make sure we put in a performance that I know would be good enough to win the game tomorrow (Saturday).”
Cricket fans around the world are eagerly awaiting Pant’s return. With his talent, grit, and leadership, he promises to be a force to be reckoned with throughout IPL 2024.
