Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has expressed his unwavering support for Rishabh Pant’s inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad, despite the emergence of other talented wicketkeeper-batters in the ongoing IPL.
Ponting, who has witnessed Pant’s remarkable recovery from a horrific car accident in December 2022, believes the young star has earned his place on the plane to Australia.
“Do I believe whether Rishabh should be there in the World Cup squad? Absolutely I do. He deserves to be in that WT20 squad by the end of the IPL,” Ponting told PTI.
Ponting acknowledged the depth of talent available to Indian selectors, but emphasized that Pant remains his top choice.
“There are a lot of options, but if I was picking a team, I would have Rishabh Pant in it every day of the week,” he said.
Ponting’s bond with Pant has grown since he became DC coach, and he is thrilled to see the wicketkeeper-batter rediscovering his form.
“Rishabh’s comeback to international cricket is nothing short of remarkable. I spent a lot of time with him during last IPL and a lot of us were actually skeptical that whether he will actually play the game again,” Ponting said.
“But like with all champions, Pant refused to throw in the towel. There was never any doubt in his mind that he will be back playing again.”
Ponting believes Pant’s impact on the team has grown with each game, and he is confident that the wicketkeeper-batter will continue to play a crucial role for India in the T20 World Cup.
