Massive news on update of Rishabh Pant’s return to IPL 2024

In a significant development, Rishabh Pant is slated to lead the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Confirming the news, DC management conveyed to Cricbuzz that the explosive batsman, who had a harrowing car accident last December, will return to professional cricket as the franchise’s captain.

Initially, reports suggested that Pant might play as an ‘Impact Player’ for the Delhi-based team, given his ongoing recovery. However, with the latest announcement of his captaincy, Pant is expected to actively participate in the field while his team bowls.

According to representatives from the management, the 26-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman is anticipated to achieve full recovery by the end of February. Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Pant’s active participation and role as a wicketkeeper in every IPL match of the upcoming edition are contingent upon approval from NCA managers.

Pant’s absence was palpably felt throughout the 2023 Indian Premier League, where David Warner took charge in his stead. Unfortunately, DC finished in the ninth position in the standings, managing to secure only five victories out of 14 matches.

Beyond Pant, DC’s squad currently features Abishek Porel as the sole wicketkeeper. With the release of Phil Salt, speculations arose regarding DC seeking another wicketkeeping option in the upcoming auction scheduled for December 19 in Dubai. However, as of now, acquiring a backup wicketkeeper is not the team’s immediate priority, although it remains a consideration for added safety.

As fans eagerly anticipate Pant’s return to the cricketing field, his captaincy role adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming IPL 2024 season.