Ricky Ponting highlights Rishabh Pant's T20 World Cup candidacy, citing remarkable progress as DC Captain

Rishabh Pant, the captain of the Delhi Capitals team, has made a spectacular return to cricket after overcoming a challenging period of injury and absence from the game. Initially, there were doubts about whether Pant would focus solely on his batting upon his return, but he has swiftly emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the T20 World Cup squad, impressing with both his batting and wicketkeeping skills.

Pant's outstanding performance after return

After missing nearly 14 months of cricket due to a serious car accident, Pant has shown remarkable form in the ongoing 2024 IPL season. He currently holds the highest score for his team, Delhi Capitals, with 254 runs in eight innings, showcasing a striking strike rate of 150. Moreover, his wicketkeeping has been sharp, sparking discussions about his potential return to the national team for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

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Ricky Ponting, the head coach of Delhi Capitals, has voiced his support for Pant's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. Ponting believes that Pant's exceptional skills and impact on the game make him a vital asset for India. He has praised Pant's improving batting prowess and confidence in his wicketkeeping abilities, expressing certainty about Pant's selection for the World Cup squad.

Pant's journey back to Cricket

Ponting also reflected on Pant's journey back to the game, acknowledging the challenges he faced after the accident. Pant's resilience and hard work, supported by the Delhi Capitals franchise, have enabled him to regain fitness and form. Ponting recalled his initial concerns about Pant's ability to return to cricket but praised his determination and positive attitude, emphasizing the importance of seeing Pant enjoy the game once again.

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Ponting highlighted the evolving nature of T20 cricket, emphasizing the importance of aggressive batting and adaptability in the game. He noted the absence of a traditional "anchor" role and stressed the need for players who can both attack and adapt to match situations. Despite Delhi Capitals' current position in the IPL standings, Ponting remains optimistic about the team's performance and the upcoming matches.

In summary, Rishabh Pant's resurgence in cricket after a challenging period demonstrates his immense talent and determination. With support from his coach and impressive performances, Pant is poised to make a significant impact in the T20 World Cup and beyond.