Bengaluru : The cricketing world was ablaze with excitement on Wednesday as Team India’s star wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, triumphantly returned to the cricket field following a hiatus enforced by a severe car accident in December 2022. Pant’s resumption of batting practise during a practise game at JSW Vijaynagar marked a pivotal step in his journey back to the sport he loves. A fan’s video shared on the social media platform “X” (formerly Twitter) captured the electrifying moment and sent fans into a frenzy.
Rishab Pant six !! #RishabhPant #India #cricket #INDvsIRE #IREvIND pic.twitter.com/S1pr5ec101
— Cricket Gyan (@cricketgyann) August 17, 2023
The video showcased Pant’s characteristic flair and finesse as he wielded the bat with the skill that has made him a household name. The left-handed dynamo, whose absence from the cricket scene had left a void in the hearts of fans, seemed back in his element as he delivered some impressive shots during his practise session.
Pant’s recovery had been ongoing at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. According to the latest update released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on July 21, the talented cricketer had commenced batting and keeping activities as part of his rehabilitation. The video shared on social media was the first visual testament to Pant’s return to the crease.
As Pant stepped onto the field to bat, his presence drew significant crowd support and elation. The moment that particularly ignited excitement was when Pant unleashed a lofted shot towards long-off, a powerful stroke that garnered resounding cheers from the spectators.
Earlier this year, Pant underwent ligament surgery to address the injuries sustained in the car crash. The BCCI had shared in an official update that he was diligently following a comprehensive fitness regimen involving strength, flexibility, and running exercises.
Pant’s absence had been palpable across all formats, especially Test cricket, where he played a pivotal role for the Indian team. The selectors filled his void initially with KS Bharat and subsequently with Ishan Kishan. The impact of Pant’s absence was particularly felt during the World Test Championship final, where India’s aspirations to break the 10-year ICC title drought were thwarted by Australia.
As the cricketing world gears up for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) format with the World Cup scheduled for October–November, KL Rahul is expected to step into the role of the primary wicketkeeper-batsman. While Rahul’s experience and skills offer a sense of stability in Pant’s absence, Ishan Kishan’s presence as the backup keeper underscores the team’s depth in the wicketkeeping department.
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