Saikiran Uppuluri
Saikiran Uppuluri
Just over a year after suffering a life-threatening car accident, Rishabh Pant has made an inspirational comeback to the cricket field. The star Indian wicketkeeper-batsman was cleared by the BCCI medical team to resume his role for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 season, putting to rest any doubts about his ability to return from such a harrowing experience.
Pant’s return has been nothing short of impressive. He has not only taken back the wicketkeeping gloves but also been the leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals so far, amassing 254 runs at an average of 36.29. His performances have silenced the critics and reignited discussions about his potential inclusion in India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Delhi’s head coach Ricky Ponting and Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly have both backed Pant’s case, stating that he is too good a player to be left out of the World Cup squad.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Pant’s comeback has been his renewed perspective on life and the game. His teammate Axar Patel has noticed a more mature and patient Rishabh, who now talks about taking time in the middle and finishing games for the team. Ponting, too, has acknowledged that while Pant’s approach on the field remains unchanged, his outlook on life may have been altered by the near-death experience. Regardless, Pant’s determination, hard work, and the unwavering support from the Delhi Capitals franchise have paved the way for this inspiring comeback story.
