Sourav Ganguly, the Delhi Capitals’ director of cricket, has revealed that the franchise will miss their captain and star keeper-batter Rishabh Pant in the ongoing IPL 2023 season. Pant, who is currently recovering from multiple injuries following a car accident in December 2022, won’t be available for the entire season. Despite this, Ganguly believes that Pant’s absence is a chance for someone else to step up and shine.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Delhi’s second game of the season against Gujarat Titans, Ganguly praised Pant’s abilities and how he improved as a player after MS Dhoni’s retirement from international cricket. He also acknowledged that Pant’s absence would be felt, but emphasized the importance of his recovery.
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With Pant out, Sarfaraz Khan kept wickets in Delhi’s first game against Lucknow Super Giants. Ganguly stated that the game has changed, with teams increasingly looking for keeper-batters who can also contribute with the bat, citing the examples of KL Rahul, Nicholas Pooran, and MS Dhoni. He added that this trend is likely to continue, with franchises always on the lookout for an extra batting option.
Despite the setback of their opening game defeat, Delhi Capitals are determined to bounce back and prove their worth in IPL 2023. Ganguly also confirmed that South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje would be available for their second game against Gujarat Titans, which promises to be an exciting encounter.
With Pant out, Delhi Capitals will be looking to their other star players, such as David Warner, Anrich Nortje, and Mitchell Marsh, to step up and lead the team to victory. Fans and supporters will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the franchise’s progress, hoping for a successful campaign in this year’s IPL season.