In the ongoing IPL 2024 season, Delhi Capitals’ head coach Ricky Ponting has expressed his desire to see a particular Indian player representing the team in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Ponting, the former Australian captain, mentioned that he would like to witness this player in action while flying with the Indian team to New York. The player in question has made a significant impression with his performances in the IPL 2024 season, catching Ponting’s attention.
Ricky Ponting, known for his astute cricketing acumen
Has been impressed by the stellar batting performances of Rishabh Pant, the captain of Delhi Capitals, in the current IPL season. Consequently, Ponting is keen on seeing Pant don the Indian jersey in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Despite several other outstanding players showcasing their talents in the tournament, Pant’s consistency and impact on the game have stood out to Ponting.
Ponting admitted that he was unsure whether Pant would make a successful comeback after the severe car accident in December 2022. However, Pant’s remarkable recovery and exceptional performance in the IPL have dispelled any doubts regarding his form and fitness, leading Ponting to anticipate Pant’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
Expressing his optimism, Ponting stated
“I hope to see Pant in the T20 World Cup team as soon as the IPL concludes. We’ve all witnessed his performances in the IPL over the past five to six years, and now we look forward to seeing him represent the Indian team.” While acknowledging the plethora of options available to the Indian selectors, Ponting emphasized Pant’s prominence as the top choice for the wicketkeeper-batsman role.
Furthermore, Ponting highlighted the abundance of talent in Indian cricket, mentioning Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, and KL Rahul as other top-performing wicketkeeper-batsmen currently in good form. However, Ponting believes that Pant’s consistency and match-winning abilities make him the preferred candidate for the crucial position in the T20 World Cup squad.
As the IPL progresses, all eyes will be on Rishabh Pant as he strives to maintain his exceptional form and solidify his position in the Indian team for the upcoming T20 World Cup, fulfilling the aspirations of fans and cricketing legends like Ricky Ponting alike.