Nasser Hussain is optimistic about Rishabh Pant’s ‘box-office’ return in IPL 2024
Rishabh Pant is anticipated to maintain his flamboyant form upon returning from injury in 2024. Former England captain Nasser Hussain acknowledged the global concern following Pant’s life-threatening car crash in December 2022 and emphasized the significant impact the wicketkeeper-batter has had on Indian cricket.
After a year away from the sport due to injury, Rishabh Pant is slowly getting back in shape. He’s on track to return to cricket in the 2024 IPL, ready to play for the Delhi Capitals again. Despite various wicketkeepers stepping up in Pant’s absence, KL Rahul has emerged as the preferred choice in both ODIs and Tests.
Hussain expressed India’s fortune in having multiple options but highlighted Pant’s unique blend of flamboyance and consistency.
“India performed well in Pant’s absence, with KL excelling in all formats. They will maintain their excellence and are fortunate to have both players. Rishabh Pant, a box-office player before his injury, is expected to retain that status upon his return,” he said.
“It was a severe accident, and the entire world awaited updates during the gradual recovery. From the first steps to gym sessions and glimpses of him playing cricket, along with moments shared with Ricky (Ponting), I tracked the progress on social media and my phone,” he added.
Supported by the BCCI, Pant underwent a rehabilitation program involving strength training, flexibility exercises, and running drills. He shared updates on his progress through social media.
“During the summer in the Ashes, I accompanied Ricky, and he was in constant communication with Pant, inquiring about his recovery progress. He is a box-office cricketer,” Hussain concluded.
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