Rishabh Pant made a remarkable comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Saturday after a 15-month hiatus due to a life-threatening car crash. Leading Delhi Capitals (DC) against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2024 opener at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Pant showcased his resilience on the field. Despite facing a defeat at the hands of Shikhar Dhawan’s Punjab Kings, Pant’s return to competitive cricket was commendable.
In his comeback match in the IPL 2024, Pant scored 18 runs off 13 balls, including two fours, before being dismissed by PBKS pacer Harshal Patel in the 12th over of the Delhi innings. Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed optimism about Pant regaining his form soon in the cash-rich league, emphasizing that Indian cricket has regained a valuable asset with Pant’s return.
Pant had endured multiple injuries in a serious car accident in December 2022, tearing all three crucial ligaments in his right knee. After undergoing three successful reconstructive surgeries and extensive rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Pant made a resilient return to competitive cricket as DC’s captain in the IPL 2024.
Reflecting on Pant’s journey post-accident, Sidhu marveled at Pant’s survival and recovery from such a horrific incident. Sidhu highlighted the painful physiotherapy process Pant underwent post-surgeries and praised his determination to overcome the challenges, describing Pant’s return to the field as a testament to his resilience and determination amidst adversity.