The buzz around Team India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad is intensifying as the announcement date approaches. With many names in contention for the final 15, all eyes are on the ongoing Indian Premier League to see who will shine and secure a spot. One player who has been making waves with his stellar performances is Rishabh Pant, the returning wicketkeeper-batter for Delhi Capitals.
Pant’s comeback to competitive cricket after a 14-month hiatus following a tragic car accident in 2022 has been nothing short of impressive. As the captain of Delhi Capitals, he has shown no signs of rustiness and has already scored two half-centuries in the first six matches of the IPL. With a total of 194 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 157.72, Pant has proven his value to the team.
Former England pacer Stuart Broad has been vocal in his support for Pant, advocating for his inclusion as India’s wicketkeeper-batter in the T20 World Cup squad. Broad was initially concerned about Pant’s fitness but was convinced of his readiness after witnessing a breathtaking shot against Kolkata Knight Riders.
Broad emphasized the importance of managing Pant’s workload to ensure his sustained performance. He suggested utilizing Pant as an Impact Player in some matches to ease the burden on the multi-talented player. Despite the challenges he faces as captain, wicketkeeper, and key batsman for Delhi Capitals, Pant’s match sharpness and potential as a match-winner make him a compelling choice for the World Cup squad.
With Pant’s form and impact on the field, it is clear that he has the potential to be a game-changer for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. As selectors deliberate on the final squad, Pant’s name is one to watch, and his heroics in the IPL may just be the tipping point in his favor.
