Delhi Capitals’ wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant made his return to cricket after a hiatus since December 2022. Leading Delhi Capitals against Punjab Kings on Sunday, in the first doubleheader of the Indian Premier League, Pant’s comeback garnered attention, including a special tweet from Google India, celebrating his much-anticipated return.
Google highlighted Pant’s absence from cricket for 453 days, with his last game being a Test match against Bangladesh in December 2022.
It’s been a long wait, welcome back 🥹🧢🏏❤️#IPL pic.twitter.com/c8HooiZPLC
— Google India (@GoogleIndia) March 23, 2024
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In his first innings back, Rishabh Pant struck two boundaries but couldn’t capitalize fully, having been dropped by Harshal Patel early on. Unfortunately, Pant couldn’t sustain his innings and got out attempting to accelerate.
His dismissal occurred in the 13th over, as he tried to uppercut Harshal Patel, resulting in a catch for Jonny Bairstow at backward point. At that point, Pant had scored 18 runs off 12 balls. Pant’s wicket added to Delhi’s troubles after losing David Warner and Mitchell Marsh within the first 10 overs of the match.
T20 World Cup On The Line
With Pant back in the mix, it will be interesting to see whether the wicketkeeper-batter is able to make his place into the T20 World Cup squad for this year. According to rumours, the Indian team for the quadrennial event this year will be announced in the middle of IPL 2024 only.
DC skipper will be looking to make his mark as quickly as possible in order to impress the selectors before they make the big call on his selection.
Also Read: IPL 2024: Steve Smith Issues Rishabh Pant Warning On DC Return