Rishabh Pant Makes Measured Return in Delhi Premier League Debut

Rishabh Pant Makes Measured Return in Delhi Premier League Debut

Rishabh Pant, India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, made a measured return to competitive cricket in his Delhi Premier League (DPL) debut on Saturday. Captaining Purani Dilli 6, Pant scored a composed 35 runs off 32 deliveries against South Delhi Superstarz at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

While the knock lacked the explosive flair Pant is known for, it showcased his evolving approach and adaptability. His innings, featuring four boundaries and a six, came at a strike rate of 109, indicating a more calculated strategy compared to his usual aggressive style.

Pant’s return to the field was met with much fanfare. Prior to the match, he was felicitated by Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rohan Jaitley and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajeev Shukla for his pivotal role in India’s recent ICC T20 World Cup triumph.

In the World Cup, Pant played a crucial role, amassing 171 runs in eight innings at an average of 24.42. His highest score of 42 came in challenging conditions at the Nassau County Stadium in the USA, demonstrating his temperament and ability to anchor the innings when needed. Beyond his batting contributions, Pant was exceptional behind the stumps, claiming 13 catches and effecting one stumping to finish with a tournament-high 14 dismissals.

Pant’s participation added further luster to the inaugural edition of the Delhi Premier League, which commenced with a star-studded opening ceremony at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The event, featuring performances by music icon Badshah and actress Sonam Bajwa, was attended by prominent figures from the DDCA, franchise owners, players, and support staff from all participating teams.

The tournament, scheduled to run from August 17 to September 8, 2024, promises 23 days of exhilarating cricketing action. A total of 40 matches – 33 in the men’s category and 7 in the women’s – are slated to be played, offering a platform for both established and emerging talent to showcase their skills.

Rishabh Pant to Ignite Delhi Premier League T20 Opener

Rishabh Pant to Ignite Delhi Premier League T20 Opener

Rishabh Pant to Grace Delhi Premier League T20 Opener, Boosting Young Talent

In a significant development for the inaugural Delhi Premier League T20 (DPLT20), Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has confirmed his participation in the opening match of the season on August 17. Pant will don the colors of Purani Delhi 6 against South Delhi Superstarz, led by Ayush Badoni, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Pant’s presence will be a major boost for the tournament, which aims to provide a platform for aspiring cricketers in Delhi. The 25-year-old has been a key figure in India’s recent success, playing a pivotal role in the team’s Test and limited-overs victories.

Purani Delhi 6 will also field another experienced campaigner in Ishant Sharma alongside Pant. Pant’s participation was initially uncertain due to his busy international schedule. However, he has made a commitment to play the first match to support the initiative and acknowledge the role Delhi cricket has played in his career.

“Rishabh has agreed to play the first match of the DPLT20 as he wanted to be a part of this initiative that is likely to provide a great platform for youngsters in Delhi,” a source close to Pant told TOI.

While Pant is eager to gain match practice after missing 15 months of cricket due to a car accident, his preparation for the upcoming international season remains a priority. He will return to red-ball training after the first match of the DPL and focus on preparing for the long-format season, starting with the Duleep Trophy in early September.

The DDCA and Purani Delhi 6 management have expressed their appreciation for Pant’s gesture while respecting his commitments. Pant’s participation in the DPLT20 opener is expected to generate significant excitement and inspire young cricketers in Delhi.

Rishabh Pant Set for Red-Ball Comeback in Duleep Trophy

Rishabh Pant Set for Red-Ball Comeback in Duleep Trophy

Rishabh Pant, India’s star wicketkeeper-batter, is set to make his long-awaited return to red-ball cricket in the upcoming Duleep Trophy, which marks the commencement of India’s 2024-25 domestic season on September 5. This will be Pant’s first first-class appearance since his horrific car accident in December 2022.

Pant’s inclusion in the Duleep Trophy squad is a significant development, as it signals his recovery from the injuries sustained in the accident. He has been undergoing rehabilitation and training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and is now deemed fit to return to competitive cricket.

However, Mohammed Shami, India’s premier fast bowler, will not be part of any of the four Duleep Trophy squads. Shami is nearing full fitness and has begun bowling at full tilt, but he is targeting a comeback during the two-Test series against Bangladesh from September 19. He will continue his training under the NCA’s supervision in Bengaluru.

The Duleep Trophy squads also feature the return of Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan, who had lost their central contracts for not prioritizing domestic cricket last season. Other top players included in the squads are KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Notably, Test captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, and Jasprit Bumrah have been given an extended break ahead of India’s home season. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who has been sidelined with a quadriceps tendon injury since January 2024, is also set to make a comeback in the Duleep Trophy.

The selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, has rewarded domestic form, as evidenced by the inclusion of Mumbai all-rounder Musheer Khan. The 19-year-old had a breakout year, playing a key role in India’s Under-19 World Cup squad and Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy triumph.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been included subject to fitness, as he is recovering from a sports hernia surgery in June.

The Duleep Trophy 2024-25 squads are as follows:

Team A: Shubman Gill (capt), Mayank Agarwal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel (wk), KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Tanush Kotian, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan, Vidwath Kaverappa, Kumar Kushagra, Shaswat Rawat.

Team B: Abhimanyu Easwaran (capt), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Musheer Khan, Nitish Kumar Reddy (subject to fitness), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Yash Dayal, Mukesh Kumar, Rahul Chahar, R Sai Kishore, Mohit Awasthi, N Jagadeesan (wk)

Team C: Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, Abishek Porel (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, B Indrajith, Hrithik Shokeen, Manav Suthar, Umran Malik, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Anshul Khamboj, Himanshu Chauhan, Mayank Markande, Aryan Juyal (wk), Sandeep Warrier

Team D: Shreyas Iyer (capt), Atharva Taide, Yash Dubey, Devdutt Padikkal, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ricky Bhui, Saransh Jain, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Aditya Thakare, Harshit Rana, Tushar Deshpande, Akash Sengupta, KS Bharat (wk), Saurabh Kumar

Pant, Ishant to Grace Delhi Premier League Debut

Pant, Ishant to Grace Delhi Premier League Debut

Delhi Premier League to Feature International Stars Pant and Ishant

New Delhi is set to host its inaugural T20 league, the Delhi Premier League (DPL), starting August 17. The league will feature six men’s teams and four women’s teams, with international stars Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma expected to take the field.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) unveiled the league on Tuesday, with former India opener Virender Sehwag as the ambassador. The draft was also conducted, with Pant and Ishant being picked up by Purani Delhi 6. Harshit Rana, currently with the Indian team in Sri Lanka, was selected by North Delhi Strikers.

However, the availability of these India players is subject to their national team commitments. “The India players’ eventual availability will depend on their commitments to the national team. However, Rishabh has given his consent to be placed in the draft for now,” said DDCA president Rohan Jaitley.

The DPL joins a growing number of state T20 leagues in India. Sehwag believes such platforms are crucial for the development of young players. “In our younger days, we used to only think of playing for India or Delhi. Now, the young generation wants to play T20. These leagues will help them get noticed,” he said.

Sehwag emphasized that the younger generation should not neglect longer formats. “This DPL will help you get noticed. But to grow as a player, you will have to play four-day cricket. Like IPL is a basis for selection for Indian team, DPL will also do the same for Delhi team,” he added.

Jaitley assured that the DDCA’s primary focus remains on Delhi’s long-format team. He also stated that the league has received BCCI approval after thorough checks and that there will be zero tolerance for any corrupt activities.

Ishan Kishan's India Comeback Hopes Fade Amidst Competition and Poor Form

Ishan Kishan’s India Comeback Hopes Fade Amidst Competition and Poor Form

Since his abrupt departure from the Indian Test team in South Africa last year, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has struggled to regain his place in the national setup. Despite being part of the ODI World Cup team in India last year, Kishan failed to feature in any matches. His subsequent absence from domestic cricket and a disappointing IPL 2024 campaign have further diminished his chances of a recall.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has attributed Kishan’s downfall to a loss of focus, suggesting that he became preoccupied with fashion. Ali believes that Kishan’s chances of returning to the Indian team are slim, given the strong competition from Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and other emerging keeper-batters.

Kishan’s decision to leave the South Africa tour midway has also raised questions about his commitment. He cited fatigue as the reason for his departure, but his subsequent absence from domestic cricket raised eyebrows. In an interview with Indian Express, Kishan explained that he was experiencing travel fatigue and needed a break. However, his explanation has not been widely accepted.

Kishan’s poor form in the IPL 2024, where he managed only 324 runs in 14 games, further damaged his chances of a recall. He was subsequently ignored for the T20 World Cup in the Americas, which India won.

With the likes of Pant, Samson, and other talented keeper-batters vying for a place in the Indian team, Kishan’s chances of a comeback appear to be dwindling. He will need to rediscover his form and prove his commitment to the team if he wants to regain his place in the national setup.

Rishabh Pant's Resurgence: From Accident to Triumph

Rishabh Pant’s Resurgence: From Accident to Triumph

Rishabh Pant, the enigmatic Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has emerged from a harrowing accident with renewed determination and a profound appreciation for life. After a horrific car crash in December 2022, Pant’s career and even his life hung in the balance. However, with unwavering resilience and a remarkable recovery, he has returned to the cricket field, proving that he is not just a talented player but also a true warrior.

In the first T20I against Sri Lanka, Pant’s performance was a testament to his indomitable spirit. Despite a sluggish start, he exploded into action, smashing a six and a four off consecutive deliveries. His innings of 49 off 33 balls showcased his trademark aggression and the ability to turn a match on its head.

Pant’s journey has been marked by both brilliance and adversity. In his six-year Test career, he has produced some of the most unforgettable knocks on foreign soil. His centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa have cemented his status as a world-class batter. However, his limited-overs career has been less consistent.

But now, it seems that Pant has found his calling as a top-four batter in T20s. His ability to dominate the powerplay and anchor the innings makes him a valuable asset in any team. In November, he will return to Australia, where he has already established himself as a cult hero.

Beyond his cricketing prowess, Pant is known for his infectious personality and quick wit. His banter with opponents and his ability to laugh at himself have endeared him to fans around the world. Despite the challenges he has faced, Pant remains the cuddly boy next door, with a maturity and cricketing acumen that belie his age.

Rishabh Pant is a true inspiration, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. His return to cricket is not just a victory for him but also a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and determination can prevail.

Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

The upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka presents a challenging selection dilemma for Team India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir. The choice between wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson has become a crucial decision, as both players possess exceptional skills and a desire to prove their worth.

Pant, a seasoned campaigner with 74 T20I appearances, has established himself as a formidable force in the shortest format. His aggressive batting style and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. In the recent T20 World Cup, Pant finished as India’s third-highest run-scorer, amassing 171 runs at a strike rate of 126.67.

Samson, on the other hand, has played 28 T20Is, scoring 633 runs at a strike rate of 133.14. Despite making his debut in 2015, Samson has only played 27 of those matches since 2020. His inconsistent selection has hindered his ability to establish himself as a regular member of the Indian team.

Statistically, there is little to separate the two players. Pant holds a slight edge in terms of average (22.70 vs. 21.14) and strike rate (126.67 vs. 133.14). However, Samson has a higher number of fifties (3 vs. 2) and has displayed an impressive ability to hit boundaries against the fastest bowlers.

The decision between Pant and Samson will ultimately depend on the team management’s assessment of their current form and suitability for the role. Pant’s experience and recent performances may give him the edge, but Samson’s potential and ability to play match-winning innings cannot be ignored.

RCB's Winning Streak Faces Test Against Pant-less Delhi Capitals

RCB’s Winning Streak Faces Test Against Pant-less Delhi Capitals

RCB vs DC Live Score: RCB’s Winning Streak Faces a Tough Test Against Pant-less Delhi Capitals

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have been on a roll lately, winning four consecutive matches to keep their playoff hopes alive. However, their next challenge comes in the form of Delhi Capitals (DC), who will be without their suspended skipper Rishabh Pant.

Pant’s absence is a significant blow to DC, as he is one of the most dangerous batsmen in the IPL. However, RCB cannot afford to become complacent, as DC still boasts a formidable lineup.

RCB’s recent victories have come against weaker opponents, such as Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad. DC, on the other hand, is a much tougher test. They have a well-balanced team with experienced players like David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, and Axar Patel.

RCB’s batting has been in good form, with Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Glenn Maxwell all contributing. However, their bowling has been a concern, with Harshal Patel and Josh Hazlewood struggling for consistency.

DC’s bowling attack is led by the experienced Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje. They also have a strong spin department, with Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.

The match between RCB and DC is expected to be a close contest. RCB will be looking to continue their winning streak, while DC will be determined to bounce back from their recent losses.

Axar Patel to Lead Delhi Capitals in Pant's Absence

Axar Patel to Lead Delhi Capitals in Pant’s Absence

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has expressed confidence in Axar Patel’s ability to lead the team in the absence of suspended captain Rishabh Pant. Pant was banned for one match after an altercation with Mumbai Indians’ Suryakumar Yadav during their previous encounter.

Ponting praised Patel’s experience and understanding of the game, saying, “He has been vice-captain for the last couple of seasons and he is very sensible and understands the game really well.”

The coach also acknowledged the challenge of replacing Pant, who has been Delhi’s best batter this season. However, he believes the team has the depth to overcome his absence.

“Rishabh has been one of the best players this IPL and not having him is a loss. But it is also a great opportunity for others,” Ponting said.

David Warner, who has missed the last four matches due to injury, is expected to be available for selection. Ponting expressed optimism about his return, saying, “David Warner has trained really strongly. We hope he is available for selection.”

The Delhi Capitals will face the Royal Challengers Bangalore on May 11 in Bengaluru. The match will be a crucial test for Patel’s leadership and the team’s ability to adapt without Pant.

Abishek Porel Impresses Ponting, Set to Keep for Delhi Capitals

Abishek Porel Impresses Ponting, Set to Keep for Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on Abishek Porel, the left-handed batter who has impressed in multiple roles during IPL 2024. Ponting has indicated that Porel will don the keeping gloves against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Sunday in the absence of the suspended Rishabh Pant.

Porel, signed by Capitals in 2023 as a replacement for Pant, has scored 267 runs in 10 innings this season at a strike rate of 157.98. He began the campaign batting at No. 9 against Punjab Kings, coming in as an Impact Player and smacking an unbeaten 31 off just 10 balls. Since then, he has been promoted to a top-four role, and in DC’s last game against Rajasthan Royals, he opened the batting and put on 60 in just 4.2 overs with Jake Fraser-McGurk. Porel went on to score 65 off 36, his first IPL half-century, studded with seven fours and three sixes.

“I’ve seen extreme growth in Abishek Porel in this IPL,” Ponting said in Bengaluru ahead of the match against RCB. “He’s a very special talent. He’s starting to work out what IPL cricket is all about. He’s had a couple of different roles as well. He’s made [31] off 10 balls as a No. 9 batsman, and now we see him opening the batting and he’s got better and better every game.”

“I’ve got huge raps on him. I think he’s a very, very good young player, obviously we’ll probably get to see him with the keeping gloves on tomorrow as well, with Rishabh not being there. And then we’ll work out, when we finalise our team, with the batting order and stuff, but I’ll be surprised if he’s not at the top of the order again, because he has played really well, and he’s someone that I think has got a really bright future.”

Ponting also hailed Jake Fraser-McGurk, the swashbuckling 22-year-old batter who has taken this IPL by storm. Fraser-McGurk, picked by DC as a replacement player after Lungi Ngidi was ruled out, has reset the T20 batting template in the powerplay, just like Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma have while batting for Sunrisers Hyderabad this season. Fraser-McGurk has scored his 309 runs while striking at 235.87 and averaging 44.14, with the help of four half-centuries.

“Some of the things he’s done – I think he’s made three 20-ball fifties in this tournament, so he along with Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma have been the stand-out powerplay batsmen in this entire tournament,” Ponting said. “He’s focused now, like all of us, he’s making sure that we’re ready to go tomorrow. For us, it’s not about what happened yesterday, it’s about what we can do today to get better, and then make sure that we’re ready to play our best game of cricket tomorrow.”

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