Michael Clarke, the former captain of Australia, stands with the majority sentiment within the cricket community in urging for Rishabh Pant’s swift return to representing India.
Pant, who endured several injuries in a serious car accident in December 2022, recently made a remarkable comeback to competitive cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as the captain of Delhi Capitals.
His absence was deeply felt by both his IPL team and the national cricket squad during major ICC tournaments such as the World Test Championship Final and the ODI World Cup in 2023.
Pant’s availability for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June 2024 is seen as a significant advantage for India. Despite initial concerns about his ability to manage wicketkeeping duties and captaincy simultaneously, Pant has shown promise by delivering notable performances in recent matches.
Having scored consecutive fifties in the IPL against Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, Pant has impressed observers with his batting prowess. Former Australian cricketer Clarke, speaking exclusively on Star Sports Cricket Live, commended Pant’s dedication to rehabilitation and his return to top form, highlighting his pivotal role as both captain and player for Delhi Capitals.
Clarke acknowledged that there might have been apprehensions following Pant’s lengthy hiatus, but expressed relief at seeing him perform well and hoped for his continued fitness in upcoming matches.
With Pant’s return, there is a shared anticipation among cricket enthusiasts, including Clarke, for his reinstatement in the Indian team. However, competition for the wicketkeeping role for India’s next assignment, the T20 World Cup 2024, will be intense, with several contenders vying for selection.
Pant, who was the preferred choice before his accident, has showcased his capabilities thus far, but consistency and staying injury-free will be crucial for him to solidify his place in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup.
