• Sportzyverse
• IPL 2024
• 04/23/2024
• 0 Comments

Rishabh Pant ‘s remarkable comeback after a near-fatal car accident in December 2022 has not only showcased his resilience but also raised his chances of making India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean. Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting and director of cricket Sourav Ganguly believe Pant’s recent performances make him a strong candidate for a spot in the World Cup squad.

Pant’s Outstanding Return

Pant’s return to competitive cricket after 453 days was met with high expectations and some doubts about his ability to perform at his previous level. However, his performance in the IPL 2024 season has silenced critics and showcased his ability as both a batter and a wicketkeeper.

In his IPL 2024 debut, Pant made an instant impact with a quick 32 off nine balls, displaying the skill and confidence that made him one of India’s top players. His performances have only improved since then, with outstanding innings of 55 off 25 balls against the Kolkata Knight Riders in one of his later games.

Also read Dinesh Karthik Eager to Return to India’s T20 World Cup Squad

Ponting and Ganguly’s Confidence in Pant

DC head coach Ricky Ponting and cricket director Sourav Ganguly expressed confidence in Pant’s chances of making India’s World Cup squad. Ganguly stated that Pant is among the best players in India and believes he should bat in the middle order.

Ricky Ponting believes in Rishabh Pant's World Cup potential 🙌🏻🏏#RickyPonting #RishabhPant #DC #T20WorldCup2024 #Indiancricket #Insidesport #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/fqbQGb1bEv

— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) April 16, 2024

“I think Pant is definitely in that bracket, and I’m sure he’ll be going to the West Indies,” Ganguly said. He also highlighted Pant’s versatility and adaptability to different batting positions in T20 cricket.

Ponting echoed Ganguly’s sentiments, praising Pant’s consistency and improvement throughout the tournament. He noted Pant’s exceptional wicketkeeping performance and his ability to regain trust in his body following his recovery.

“I’ve been asked a lot already the last couple of weeks now that he’s back playing what could be his World Cup chances. I think he’ll be in the squad for sure. He’s too good a player and can have too much of an impact on games for India to not pick him,” Ponting said.

Pant’s Evolution as a Cricketer

According to DC all-rounder Axar Patel, Pant has grown more mature since his accident. Patel mentioned Pant’s increased patience and focus on finishing games for the team, reflecting his evolution as a player.

Ponting added that while Pant’s perspective on life may have changed due to the accident, his approach and attitude on the field remain consistent. “I don’t think he’s changed much as a cricketer, to be honest. The way he thinks about life now might be slightly different than before,” Ponting said.