New Delhi: Rishabh Pant’s all-round display in Delhi Capitals’ six-wicket win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 must have brought smiles in the faces of BCCI selectors.
He effected two stumpings, took two catches, captained with authority and remained unbeaten on 16 runs in 11 balls as DC completed a chase of 90 in 8.5 overs away in Ahmedabad.
Before suffering a horrific car accident in December 2022, Pant was India’s premier keeper-batter. But he has since been out of action for over 14 months and only returned in the ongoing IPL 2024.
He didn’t need many matches to get back his scoring touch but it was his keeping that was up for scrutiny with the T20 World Cup scheduled to begin in the Caribbean and USA in June.
Reports suggest BCCI selectors were willing include him in India’s 15-an squad but only after his knee withstands the pressure of close contests.
After his performance on Wednesday, there must be little in the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee.
“The only thought process before coming to the field is that I wanted to come in a better way,” the left hander said after their victory.
“Only thought when I was doing my rehab. Each and every match I am loving the process and being on the ground.”
Even Delhi head coach Ricky Ponting spoke up Pant’s chances, saying that had he been a selector he would have surely included him.
Pant’s team had a tough start to IPL 2024 and their win on Wednesday as only their third in seven matches that lifted them to sixth in the standings.
But the dominating manner in which they beat Gujarat displayed thier mental resolve, he said.
“Lots of things to be pleased about. We spoke about champion mindset and our team spoke about it,” he said, adding it was one of the best bowling efforts of IPL 2024.
“Still early in the tournament and we can still improve from here.”
Delhi completed their 90-run chase formality in just 8.5 overs, giving their net run rate a boost.
“The only conversation was to get it as early as possible because we lost few net run rate points in some other games where we lost,” Pant said.
“I think we just want to enjoy one win at a time. They are hard to come by but you have to enjoy each and every moment.”
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