Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting stated that Rishabh Pant has been working hard to regain fitness and is very confident of playing every match in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Pant missed the last season of the cash-rich league after suffering injuries in a tragic car accident on December 30, 2022. However, Ponting admitted that the franchise is concerned about whether Pant will do wicketkeeping duties in the IPL 2024.

Rishabh is very confident that he’s going to be right to play. In what capacity we’re not quite sure yet. You would have seen all the social media stuff, he’s up and about and running well. But in saying that we’re only six weeks away from the first game as well. So, we’re not sure if we’ll get wicketkeeping out of him this year, Ponting told reporters.

The former Australian captain expressed that Pant will be back as their captain for the upcoming season. In his absence, David Warner took over the charge and finished ninth on the points table last year. But I’ll guarantee if I asked him now, he’ll say, I’m playing every game, I’m keeping every game and I’m batting at No.4. That’s just what he’s like, but we’ll keep our fingers crossed. He’s such a dynamic player. We missed him incredibly last year, Ponting added.

Ponting admitted that if Pant plays as many matches as possible in IPL 2024, it will be a bonus for the Delhi Capitals. I am sure that our team will bounce back this year with the addition of new talents to the squad. You’ve got to get the best talent out there on the field, concluded Ponting.