The wait is finally over! After an excruciating period of a 14-month recovery break, the cricketing world’s fiery star, Rishabh Pant, is set to return to center stage at the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The mere news of his clearance by the BCCI sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the cricketing atmosphere, and all eyes are now on Pant as he walks his path towards his re-debut in the IPL.

Let’s cast our minds back to the dark day of 30th November, 2022. A day that started like any other quickly transformed into something sort of a nightmare. Rishabh Pant was involved in a near-fatal accident on the Delhi-Dehradun highway that left him with multiple injuries.

You name it, he got it! The news broke the internet and left fans across the globe stunned and heartbroken in utmost despair. Questions aroused whirling his cricket career - whether he’d hold a cricket bat ever again!

But Rishabh isn’t built to succumb to adversity. From the very moment the accident occurred, he was determined to rise again and show his aggression on the pitch. Though the road to recovery was not easy, Pant’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary.

Months of intense rehabilitation, countless physiotherapy sessions, and a steely determination to reclaim his place in the Indian cricket team marked this period. 

His progress, shared through social media, inspired millions worldwide. He has been the perfect example that with the right mindset, even the greatest challenges can be overcomed.

Don’t miss on the iconic tough fight that the young Indian player will be putting through in his comeback debut. Watch live cricket for free and don’t miss a single buzz from the cricket universe.

The miracle of resilience

Tracking back to the old times when his return to cricket seemed like a far-fetched dream. But, dreams do come true when they are backed by the unwavering will and determination of a champion like Pant. 

‘Talking about the right knee, none of the ligaments were spared during that accident. You talk about ACL, PCL, lateral collateral ligament, medial collateral ligament, popliteus muscle, as well as part of the quadriceps, you name it, and he didn’t have it’ - says Dhananjay Kaushik, physiotherapist at the National Cricket Academy.

Kaushik further adds ‘I think if there’s anyone who could’ve made a comeback, it’s Rishabh. With the kind of attitude he’s got, the way he takes things in his stride’. 

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala who treated Pant in the Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai also disclosed the severity of the Indian keeper batters’ injuries. After a high velocity knee dislocation, Pant’s comeback story is a tale of the boundless power of the human spirit. 

The iconic comeback of Rishabh Pant to the pitch

In his own words, Rishabh Pant admitted that his return feels like a new beginning. He duly acknowledges the unwavering support from the BCCI, the NCA staff, his fans across the country, and of course, his family, who stood by him in his darkest hours.

There’s a newfound gratitude in him, a sense of mild appreciation for the simple joy of taking the field. The IPL won’t be the same without Pant’s dazzling shots and electric energy behind the stumps.

He is an absolute gamechanger, someone who can turn a match towards his own direction, with his sheer audacity and explosive batting style. His return will not only boost the strength of Delhi Capitals but also Indian cricket. 

However, the big question is - Can Pant recapture his explosive form? Undoubtedly, there will be an adjustment period, the rustiness that comes with a long absence. 

But if at all, we know anything about Rishabh Pant, it’s that he doesn’t settle for mediocrity. Expect him to push boundaries, determined to make up for the last time.

He’s back to prove that he’s not only a survivor but a player ready to ascend to even greater heights. 

Pant has played several practice games, and will be seen playing for the Delhi Capitals opening match against Punjab Kings at Mohali scheduled on the 23rd of March, with the T20 world cup nearing as well.

Tune in yourself for the comeback match of Pant for Delhi Capitals to be held on the 23rd of March in Mohali. Watch live cricket for free and catch on this unmissable event as cricket fans worldwide will have their eyes glued on their screens.