After enduring a challenging journey to recovery following a devastating car accident in December 2022, Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and Delhi Capitals skipper is gearing up to step back onto the cricket field.
During a chat with the Delhi Capitals ahead of their first match against Punjab Kings on March 23, Pant expressed gratitude to his supporters, the DC owners, the BCCI, and the NCA officials for their contributions during his 14-month recovery period.
Yesterday’s confirmation that Rishabh Pant will be participating in IPL 2024 as the wicket-keeper batsman for Delhi Capitals came after the BCCI medical team gave him the green light to play in his preferred role. There were many speculations surrounding his involvement, with NCA officials assessing his fitness thoroughly. However, after witnessing his impressive performance in the nets and noting his significant progress, the BCCI cleared Pant to play in its latest medical update, bringing his fans immense joy.
“After undergoing an extensive 14-month rehab and recovery process, following a life-threatening road mishap on December 30th, 2022, near Roorkee, Uttarakhand, Rishabh Pant has now been declared fit as a wicket-keeper batter for the upcoming TATA IPL 2024,” BCCI’s latest press release read.
In a recent chat with the Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant couldn’t contain his enthusiasm about hitting the field at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi with the support of their passionate fans. He shared his deep gratitude for all those who’ve supported him along the way, helping him find his groove again. And when asked about his favorite cricket tournament, Pant didn’t hesitate to name the IPL as his top pick.
“I am excited and nervous at the same time. It feels like I am going to make my debut again,” said Pant in a Delhi Capitals release.
“To be able to play cricket again after everything I’ve been through is nothing short of a miracle. I’m grateful to all my well-wishers and fans, and most importantly, the BCCI and staff at NCA. All their love and support continues to give me immense strength,” Pant further said.
“I am excited to return to Delhi Capitals and the IPL – a tournament I enjoy so much. Our team owners and support staff have been by my side throughout with their full support, guidance and co-operation at every step, for which I am deeply grateful. I can’t wait to re-unite with my DC family and play in front of the fans again,” Rishabh Pant concluded.
Speaking on the occasion, Delhi Capitals Chairman & Co-owner Parth Jindal said, “We’re delighted to welcome Rishabh back to the Delhi Capitals family. The kind of grit and resilience he has displayed in overcoming challenges is inspirational to say the least. We’re humbled to have been a part of his journey to recovery, which has been exceptional. Rishabh’s return is one of the most highly anticipated ones in recent times, and I can’t wait to see him compete again.”
Pant’s involvement in the IPL, coupled with a spectacular display of batting prowess, may boost his chances of securing a place in the Indian team for the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled for June this year. The Delhi Capitals are set to kick off their IPL 2024 journey against the Punjab Kings on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium in Mohali.
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