NEW DELHI: India's dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, expressed deep emotions ahead of his comeback to elite cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday, marking his return to the Delhi Capitals squad after a harrowing 2022 car crash.
In his first match since the accident, Pant took on the role of captain for the Delhi Capitals as they faced off against Punjab Kings in their opening IPL fixture at Mullanpur. Speaking at the toss after Delhi was invited to bat first, Pant revealed, "Really emotional time for me. Just want to enjoy the moment."
SCORECARD: Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals
Pant's return follows a tumultuous 15-month hiatus from cricket after the horrific car crash in December 2022. The accident left him with multiple injuries, including a damaged ligament in his right knee, wrist, and ankle injuries, as well as abrasions to his back, after his Mercedes SUV flipped over and caught fire following a collision with a crash barrier near New Delhi.
The talented cricketer underwent extensive rehabilitation and surgery, enduring a rigorous recovery journey to regain fitness and return to the field.
Despite the challenges, Pant expressed his excitement about the upcoming season, stating, "Not thinking much. Not worried about last season. Really exciting times. We have been preparing well."
During Pant's absence, David Warner of Australia led the Delhi Capitals, with the team finishing in ninth place out of ten teams in the previous season. However, Pant's return brings renewed hope and enthusiasm to the Delhi franchise as they aim to secure their maiden IPL title.
Pant, known for his aggressive batting style, boasts an impressive international record, having represented India in 129 matches across all formats and amassing 4,123 runs, including six centuries.
As he steps back onto the IPL stage, fans eagerly anticipate his impactful contributions to the Delhi Capitals' campaign in the tournament.
1/8:5 rules that are used in IPL but not in T20Is
Agencies
2/8:Bouncer Rule
<p>In IPL, two bouncers per over will be allowed from the upcoming season, while T20Is restrict bowlers to only one bouncer per over.</p>Agencies
3/8:Impact Player Rule
<p>Introduced in IPL 2023, the Impact Player Rule allows teams to substitute the 12th player at any moment, a feature not present in T20Is.</p>Agencies
4/8:DRS for No-Ball and Wide-Ball
<p>IPL teams can utilize the Decision Review System (DRS) for no-ball and wide-ball calls, a rule not yet adopted in international cricket.</p>Agencies
5/8:Strategic Timeout
<p>IPL permits two strategic timeouts of 2 minutes and 30 seconds each during the 20-over innings, providing tactical breaks, unlike T20Is.</p>Agencies
6/8:Smart Replay Technology
<p>In IPL, smart replay technology has been introduced, eliminating the broadcaster's role and enabling direct communication between the third umpire and hawk-eye operators for close decisions, a feature absent in T20Is.</p>Agencies
7/8:Stop Clock Rule (T20 World Cup 2024)
<p>ICC's Stop Clock Rule, set for implementation from T20 World Cup 2024, requires teams to start a new over within 60 seconds after the previous one ends, penalizing delays with five runs for each subsequent breach, a rule yet to be introduced in IPL.</p>Agencies
8/8:Summary of Unique IPL Rules
<p>IPL features unique rules such as multiple bouncers per over, the Impact Player Rule, DRS for no-ball and wide-ball, strategic timeouts, and smart replay technology, setting it apart from T20Is.</p>Agencies(With inputs from AFP)
