The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is set to witness a remarkable comeback story as the BCCI has cleared star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant to keep wickets for the Delhi Capitals. Pant’s road to recovery has been an inspiring one, as he overcame serious injuries sustained in a horrific car accident last December. However, the same cannot be said for KL Rahul, the designated captain of the Lucknow Super Giants, whose participation remains uncertain due to a lingering quadricep tendon injury.
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Rishabh Pant’s Comeback Trail
In a significant development, the BCCI’s fitness and medical teams have cleared wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant to keep wickets for the Delhi Capitals in the upcoming IPL 2024 season. Pant, who suffered serious injuries in a car accident in December 2022, has been making steady progress in his rehabilitation and is set to make a remarkable comeback.
Pant’s Fatal Car Accident
In late December 2022, he was involved in a serious car accident near Roorkee, Uttarakhand. His car collided with a road divider and caught fire. Pant suffered injuries to his head, back and leg and had to be rescued from the vehicle by locals before being admitted to a hospital in Dehradun.
Initially, there were concerns about threat to his life, but his condition stabilized after being placed on ventilator support. He underwent surgery for ligament injuries to his knee and ankle. After spending around 3 weeks in the hospital, Pant was airlifted to Mumbai in early January 2023 for further treatment and rehabilitation at a specialty facility.
KL Rahul’s Injury Woes Continue
However, the news is not as positive for KL Rahul, the designated captain of the Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul has been sidelined since the first Test against England in January due to a quadricep tendon injury, and there is no update on his availability for the IPL 2024 season.
Shami and Prasidh Ruled Out of IPL 2024
In another blow, fast bowlers Mohammed Shami and Prasidh Krishna have been ruled out of the IPL 2024 tournament. Shami, who recently underwent surgery for a heel issue, has no set return date, and the BCCI’s medical team is closely monitoring his progress. Prasidh Krishna, on the other hand, had surgery on February 23 for a left proximal quadriceps tendon injury and is set to begin his recovery at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
Why pant is important for Delhi capitals side
Rishabh Pant is a vital cog in the Delhi Capitals setup, and his return is a massive boost for the franchise. The swashbuckling left-hander brings a unique blend of aggression and flair to the team, both with the bat and behind the stumps.
As a batter, Pant’s ability to single-handedly turn the tide of a match with his audacious stroke play is unparalleled. His fearless approach and propensity to take on the bowling make him a nightmarish prospect for the opposition. Pant’s presence in the middle order provides the Capitals with the much-needed impetus during crucial phases of the game.
As the IPL 2024 season approaches, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the return of one of India’s most talented and dynamic players, Rishabh Pant. His clearance to keep wickets for the Delhi Capitals is not only a testament to his unwavering determination and fighting spirit but also a beacon of hope for the franchise and its fans.
Pant’s comeback from a life-threatening accident is nothing short of remarkable, and his presence on the field is sure to ignite the spirit of the Delhi Capitals’ squad. With his explosive batting, agile keeping, and infectious energy, Pant has the potential to single-handedly propel his team to new heights.
