Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has laid out his plans for the return of Indian star player Rishabh Pant in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Pant, who has been recovering from a major car accident in December 2022, is gearing up to make his comeback to professional cricket with the Capitals.
Ponting revealed that Pant has been diligently working on his recovery and has participated in match practice sessions alongside India teammate Hardik Pandya at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). With Pant’s return imminent, Ponting discussed the pivotal role the wicket-keeper/batter is expected to play for the Capitals.
In an interview on the latest episode of The ICC Review with Sanjana Ganesan, Ponting expressed his anticipation for Pant to resume his captaincy duties for the Capitals if his fitness permits.
“It’s a significant decision we’ll have to make because if he is fit, you’d expect him to step straight back into that captaincy role,” Ponting stated. However, Ponting acknowledged that if Pant’s fitness is not fully restored, adjustments may be necessary in his role within the team.
“If he’s not entirely fit and we have to use him in a slightly different role, then we’ve got some decisions to make there,” Ponting added.
As the Capitals gear up for the IPL season, all eyes will be on Pant’s return and the strategic decisions surrounding his role in the team’s campaign.
