Rishabh Pant is set to make his comeback 14 months after a near-fatal car accident. The wicketkeeper-batsman has confessed to feeling the same nerves he had as a rookie. Following a successful fitness clearance announced by the BCCI this past Tuesday, Pant is officially ready for the IPL. He'll be joining the Delhi Capitals for their first match against the Punjab Kings in Mohali on March 23. His recovery was a long process, necessitated by extensive surgery on his right knee ligaments as well as treatment for injuries to his ankle and wrist.
Rishabh Pant will return to the field 14 months after surviving a life-threatening car accident, and the wicketkeeper-batsman is “nervous” as if he is a debutant again. On Tuesday, the BCCI announced that Pant has cleared the fitness tests and he is fit to play the upcoming IPL. Pant’s Delhi Capitals (DC) will begin its IPL campaign against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali on March 23. The left-handed batter suffered many injuries and required ligament reconstruction surgery on his right knee. He was also left nursing a damaged wrist and ankle.
\"I'm currently riding a wave of both excitement and nervousness,\" Pant told the media. \"It really feels like I'm starting my career from scratch. After everything that happened, the fact that I can play cricket again is nothing short of a miracle. I am incredibly thankful to everyone who rooted for me, my fans, and the dedicated staff at the NCA and the BCCI. Their kindness and support have kept me going,\" he explained.
The 26-year-old expressed his eagerness to rejoin the Delhi Capitals and compete in the IPL, a tournament he holds in high regard. He emphasized his deep gratitude toward the team's ownership and support staff, who remained steadfastly by his side with constant guidance during his recovery. He added that he is looking forward to reuniting with his teammates and playing in front of the crowds once more.
Pant is anticipated to handle both batting and wicketkeeping duties in the high-stakes league. Known for his fearless and explosive batting style, he brings a wealth of experience from 33 Tests, 30 ODIs, and 66 T20 Internationals for India.