The wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant is reportedly set to be a part of India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The Indian squad gearing up for the T20 World Cup is set to include a familiar face with a surprising twist – Rishabh Pant’s return. While some might find it unexpected given his recent absence due to a car accident over a year ago, Pant’s potential comeback signals a significant moment for Indian cricket.
Having been sidelined from competitive cricket since December 2022, Pant’s journey back to the field has been one of resilience and determination. His return to the IPL 2024 season with the Delhi Capitals not only showcased his fitness but also his versatility, as he seamlessly transitioned into the role of a wicketkeeper-batsman.
Reports suggest that Pant’s performance in the IPL has caught the attention of the Indian team management, who view him as a vital asset for the upcoming World Cup. Barring any drastic loss of form, Pant is expected to secure his spot in the squad, thanks to his proven ability to turn the tide of a match.
In his comeback matches, Pant has displayed glimpses of his match-winning prowess, contributing crucial runs against tough opponents like Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings. Despite a minor setback against Mumbai Indians, Pant’s overall performance has overshadowed any doubts about his readiness for international cricket.
Sourav Ganguly, who’s involved with the Delhi Capitals’ support team, just shared some good news about the player, mentioning that he’s completely recovered and is back in top form.
“Let a few more matches go. He is doing very well, as you all must have seen, keeping batting. So he’s held up well and his form has been fantastic, especially the way he has batted in the last two games. So let another week go and I’ll be able to answer that question, provided the selectors want to pick him. So that’s most important. Yeah, yeah, he’s fully fit,” Ganguly said.
As the 2024 IPL unfolds, Pant’s stellar displays have undoubtedly elevated his standing among his competitors for a place in Team India. With each innings, he reinforces his case for inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad, proving that he is more than capable of rising to the occasion on the world stage.
In the five matches Delhi Capitals have played up to now, Pant has accumulated 153 runs, with his only blip being in the recent game against Mumbai Indians. Among the contenders for the wicketkeeper-batsman position in the Indian team are Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and Jitesh Sharma.