Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting is confident that Rishabh Pant will participate in IPL 2024, despite uncertainties regarding his role as captain and wicketkeeper due to lingering injuries from a car accident in December 2022. Ponting, speaking from Melbourne after being introduced as Washington Freedom’s new MLC coach, conveyed Pant’s optimism about his availability, albeit with reservations about his capacity.
“Rishabh is very confident that he’s going to be right to play,” Ponting stated. “In what capacity we’re not quite sure yet.”
Ponting acknowledged the social media updates showcasing Pant’s recovery progress but remained cautious due to the proximity of the first game and the uncertainties surrounding Pant’s ability to resume wicketkeeping duties this season.
“You would have seen all the social-media stuff, he’s up and about and running well. But in saying that we’re only six weeks away from the first game as well. So we’re not sure if we’ll get wicketkeeping out of him this year.”
Ponting to prioritize Rishabh Pant’s health and recovery
Despite Pant’s eagerness to play every game and fulfill multiple roles, Ponting emphasized the need to prioritize Pant’s well-being and recovery, considering the severity of his accident.
“But I’ll guarantee if I asked him now he’ll say, ‘I’m playing every game, I’m keeping every game and I’m batting at No.4.’ That’s just what he’s like, but we’ll keep our fingers crossed.He’s such a dynamic player. He’s obviously our captain. We missed him incredibly last year.”
Even if it’s not all the games, if we can manage him through 10 of the 14 games or whatever that might be then whatever games you can get out of him will be a bonus”, Ponting added,
Reflecting on Pant’s journey post-accident, Ponting highlighted the gravity of the incident and Pant’s gratitude for being able to return to cricket.
“If you understand the journey he’s been on the last 12-13 months, it was a horrific incident. One that I know he feels very lucky to have even survived, let alone have the chance to play cricket again.”
Ponting also confirmed that David Warner would take up captaincy duties if Pant was unavailable.
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