Rishabh Pant is set to stage a comeback in the cricketing arena, with strong indications of his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The Delhi Capitals management has officially confirmed Pant’s leadership role for the 2024 IPL season, signaling his return after nearly a year of absence.
Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Pant is expected to regain fitness by the end of February, pending clearance from NCA managers. However, uncertainties persist regarding his wicketkeeping duties during IPL matches due to previous injuries, including knee surgery and issues with his back and ankles.
Franchise officials have clarified that Pant will assume wicketkeeping responsibilities only if approved by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Otherwise, he will focus on batting and fielding. Despite suggestions of utilizing him solely as an Impact Player, a franchise official stated, “If he is not keeping, he will definitely be on the field and will lead the side.”
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Pant’s absence was keenly felt by the Delhi Capitals in the previous IPL season, where they finished ninth in the points table. With high hopes pinned on Pant’s return as an inspirational leader, the Capitals aim for a turnaround in their fortunes.
Having missed several international games since January 2023, including the IPL and various series, Pant is likely to be unavailable for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan and the significant five-Test series against England in February and March. His absence is already noted in the ongoing series against South Africa.