In a major boost for India's men's cricket team and Delhi Capitals (DC), Rishabh Pant played an intra-squad game in Alur, near Bengaluru. Pant who survived a horrific accident and underwent several surgeries to get back to his feet is expected to play for the Delhi-based franchise in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a batter and unlikely to don the gloves.
“It was an intra-squad game that included local players as well arranged by DC. It is part of an ongoing process to assess Pant's fitness as NCA and DC support staff are monitoring his progress. The aim was to see if his mobility had increased. He has been batting in the nets and the match was an extension of it,” a source told Sports Tak.
Pant who has been out of competitive cricket for over nearly 15 months is showing positive signs as reports claim that he's running well between the wickets and has no discomfort while batting.
The 26-year-old is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru, after undergoing treatment in London which was approved by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Pant has been optimistic throughout the journey as he feels lucky to have survived the accident. He has his eyes set on regaining full fitness.
Ponting keeping fingers crossed for Pant’s return
Earlier this month, DC head coach Ricky Ponting confirmed that Pant is set for a comeback. However, he wants to manage him during the league stage to avoid any injury.
"He's such a dynamic player. He's obviously our captain. We missed him incredibly last year. If you understand the journey he's been on the last 12-13 months, it was a horrific incident. One that I know he feels very lucky to have even survived, let alone have the chance to play cricket again.
"We'll just keep our fingers crossed and hope that he can be out there and play. Even if it's not all the games, if we can manage him through 10 of the 14 games or whatever that might be then whatever games you can get out of him will be a bonus," Ponting said.
Ponting also said that Pant is unlikely to return to the wicketkeeping role straightaway. In addition, if Pant is not fit to play all the games, Australian opener David Warner is likely to continue as captain.
IPL 2024’s schedule yet to be announced
The IPL 2024 is set to begin on March 22. However, the schedule has not been announced due to general elections. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal said that initially 15 days of schedule will be announced.
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