Delhi Capitals' captain Rishabh Pant has been given the green light to lead the team in the upcoming IPL 2024 season after receiving clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Pant's return comes after a recovery period following a car accident in December 2022, signaling his readiness to resume action on the cricket field.
Pant, who has been engaged in promotional activities for the IPL, will soon join the Delhi Capitals camp in Vizag to prepare for the season opener on March 23 against Punjab Kings. However, the specifics of Pant's role within the team, particularly whether he will continue as captain or solely focus on batting, remain uncertain as Delhi Capitals declined to comment on the matter.
Sources close to the team revealed that Delhi Capitals are keen on easing the pressure on Pant, considering his commitments in international cricket. It is anticipated that Pant may not feature as a wicketkeeper-batter in the team, indicating a potential change in his role.
Sourav Ganguly, Delhi Capitals' Director of Cricket, emphasized the importance of Pant's fitness and the need for a cautious approach. Ganguly highlighted that decisions regarding Pant's role and captaincy backups would be made based on his reaction after clearance from the NCA. He reiterated the team's commitment to Pant's long-term career prospects and emphasized the need to avoid rushing him back into action.
The Capitals will commence their IPL 2024 campaign against Punjab Kings on March 23 in Mohali, followed by a match against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur on March 28. During the initial phase of the tournament, Delhi Capitals' home matches will be held in Vizag, with clashes against Chennai Super Kings on March 31 and Kolkata Knight Riders on April 3.