Rishabh Pant, the “Gabba” conqueror, is poised to make a triumphant return to Test cricket nearly two years after a life-altering car crash in December 2022. The accident left him with severe injuries, but the Delhi wicketkeeper-batsman has made a remarkable recovery and is ready to don the Test whites once again.
Pant’s return to competitive cricket came earlier this year in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he led the Delhi Capitals (DC). Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and an extended rehabilitation period, Pant showed no signs of rust, leading DC to a successful campaign.
“It’s a remarkable comeback, honestly,” said DC’s former head coach Ricky Ponting. “The mental and physical challenges he faced were unimaginable, but he overcame them with determination and resilience.”
Pant’s successful IPL return paved the way for his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad, where he played a key role in the team’s victory. His return to Test cricket is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the belief that he can still be a force to be reckoned with.
The upcoming Test series against Bangladesh will be an emotional moment for Pant, as he steps onto the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on September 19. It will be a reminder of his journey back from adversity and the indomitable spirit that has defined his career.
Pant’s return to the Test team also brings back memories of his epic 89 not out at The Gabba in Brisbane in January 2021. His innings helped India chase down a daunting 328-run target and win the series against Australia, breaking their long-standing fortress at the stadium.
As India prepares to travel to Australia for the Border Gavaskar Trophy in December, Pant’s presence in the Test team will be crucial. His experience and match-winning ability will be invaluable as India looks to retain the trophy and continue their dominance in Test cricket.
