Rishabh Pant is poised for a spectacular return to professional cricket as the BCCI declares him 100% fit for the Indian Premier League 2024. After surviving a life-threatening car crash in December 2022, the dynamic Indian cricketer underwent an extensive 14-month rehabilitation process. Set to make a comeback with the Delhi Capitals on March 23 in Mohali against Punjab Kings, Pant’s return as a wicketkeeper-batter is eagerly anticipated.
BCCI’s official announcement on social media read, “After undergoing an extensive 14-month rehab and recovery process, following a life-threatening road mishap on December 30th, 2022, @RishabhPant17 has now been declared fit as a wicket-keeper batter for the upcoming #TATA @IPL 2024.”
Pant’s journey to recovery since his surgery in early 2023 has shown consistent progress, with occasional net sessions demonstrating his rapid improvement. The suspense surrounding his return for IPL 2024 kept fans and team officials on edge, with positive updates from Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting and director Sourav Ganguly.
While Ponting initially expressed concerns about Pant playing purely as a batter due to doubts about his wicketkeeping abilities, the official BCCI update now confirms Pant’s readiness to both bat and keep. However, considering the long absence from top-flight cricket, the Capitals may manage Pant’s workload judiciously, especially given his role as the team’s captain.
Pant’s return to form was evident in recent simulation exercises in Bengaluru, where he played a 20-over exhibition match in Alur under the watchful eyes of NCA staff. Striking one-handed sixes with ease, Pant demonstrated his readiness to return to the game. While doubts lingered over his wicketkeeping role, today’s update alleviates any concerns.
The upcoming IPL season marks Pant’s first top-flight appearance in 15 months, making it imperative to manage his physical workload wisely. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits Pant’s comeback, his resilience and determination in overcoming adversity make this return even more remarkable.
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