Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is set to lead the Delhi Capitals in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, marking his return to the cricketing arena following a serious car accident in 2022, as announced by the club on Tuesday.
Expressing his confidence in Pant's resilient spirit, club chairman and co-owner Parth Jindal emphasised how grit and fearlessness have always defined Pant's cricketing style. Jindal conveyed the team's delight in welcoming him back as the skipper, eagerly anticipating his leadership on the field once again.
"I am eagerly awaiting the moment when he leads our team onto the field, infusing it with a fresh wave of passion, energy, and enthusiasm," Jindal remarked.
Pant had met with the accident in December 2022, when his Mercedes SUV collided with a crash barrier north of New Delhi, resulting in multiple injuries. Despite the setback, Pant underwent rigorous rehabilitation, addressing injuries to his knee, wrist, ankle, and back sustained in the crash.
Previously replaced as captain by David Warner, Pant's resurgence now positions him to potentially represent India in the T20 World Cup scheduled for June in the West Indies and the United States.
Acknowledging Pant's dedication during this challenging phase, team co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi praised his relentless efforts in overcoming adversity.
As the IPL gears up for its latest edition starting March 22, with defending champions Chennai Super Kings facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opener, the Delhi Capitals are slated to take on the Punjab Kings in their first match on March 23.
Renowned as the world's most lucrative cricket league, the IPL continues to be a financial boon for both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and its marquee players.
