After a serious car accident in December of last year, Rishabh Pant, Team India’s wicketkeeper-batter, has not played any professional cricket matches. Nevertheless, a viral advertisement video featuring Pant has emerged on social media prior to IPL 2023, in which he declares, “I am coming to play.”
Pant had been driving to his hometown of Roorkee when he lost control of his Mercedes, causing it to collide with the divider and catch fire. Fortunately, he was able to exit the car in time and was taken to a nearby hospital with the assistance of a bus driver and conductor.
On March 29, Zomato, a well-known food delivery platform, posted a video on their official Instagram account featuring Rishabh Pant. The video was accompanied by a caption that read, “It’s time for a comeback #RishabhIsBack.”
In the viral video, Rishabh Pant can be heard expressing his passion for two things he can’t live without: cricket and food. Despite not being able to play cricket for the past few months due to his accident, Pant shares that he made sure to eat healthily at home as per his doctor’s recommendation. As the cricket season approaches, Pant felt inspired to get back into the game and declares, “I am still in the game boss! I am coming to play.”
The IPL 2023 season is set to commence on April 1, with Delhi Capitals scheduled to play against Lucknow Super Giants, led by KL Rahul. However, the team is yet to finalize their wicketkeeper for the upcoming season.
Reports suggest that DC management is interested in signing Bengal’s promising young wicketkeeper-batter, Abishek Porel, as a replacement for Pant. However, Porel has limited experience, having played only three T20s and 16 first-class matches for his state side. Despite performing well in DC’s pre-season camp, it remains to be seen whether he will be selected.
Alternatively, the team could opt to use Mumbai’s Sarfaraz Khan as a wicketkeeper. Khan has been in excellent form over the last year, scoring runs in all three formats of the game. Given his recent performances, he is highly likely to be given a spot in the playing XI.
With Rishabh Pant out of action, Delhi Capitals have designated Australian veteran David Warner as their captain for the IPL 2023 season. Warner was acquired by the Delhi Capitals franchise in the mega-auction leading up to IPL 2022. He has established himself as a skilled leader for his previous franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and will aim to do the same for DC.