Ricky Ponting Backs Rishabh Pant: A Remarkable Comeback After Car Accident
Ponting’s Initial Concerns
Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant – Ricky Ponting, the Delhi Capitals coach, has been a vocal supporter of Rishabh Pant’s return to cricket after a horrific car accident. Recalling the initial days after the accident, Ponting describes having “grave fears” about Pant ever playing again. The physical injuries and the psychological trauma seemed insurmountable. He remembers seeing Pant on crutches just months after the accident, raising serious doubts about his ability to recover fully.
Pant’s Determination and Support System
Despite the initial concerns, Ponting was struck by Pant’s unwavering determination. When asked about the upcoming season, Pant simply assured Ponting, “Don’t worry, I’ll be right.” This unwavering confidence, coupled with the exceptional support from the Delhi Capitals franchise, played a vital role in Pant’s recovery. Ponting specifically acknowledges the contribution of Patrick Farhart, the team physiotherapist, who played a crucial role in Pant’s physical rehabilitation.
# Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant
From Crutches to IPL Hero: A Testament to Hard Work – Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant
The turnaround from using crutches to becoming an IPL star is a testament to Pant’s incredible work ethic and dedication. He impressed everyone with his batting prowess, scoring a remarkable 446 runs at an average of 40.54 and a strike rate of 155.40. Yet, for Ponting, the most impressive aspect of Pant’s comeback was his wicketkeeping.
Addressing Concerns About Wicketkeeping
While Pant’s batting talent was never in question, there were concerns about his ability to handle the demanding workload of wicketkeeping in the IPL. Squatting for every ball over 14 consecutive matches was a significant physical challenge after the injuries he sustained.
# Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant
Pant Silences Doubts with Stellar Keeping Performance
However, Pant defied these doubts with a remarkable display of wicketkeeping skills. He finished the IPL season with the joint-highest number of dismissals (16) by any wicket-keeper, silencing his critics and proving his complete recovery.
A World Cup Prediction Comes True
Prior to the World Cup selection, Ponting had confidently predicted Pant’s inclusion in the Indian squad. He believed Pant’s talent and his impressive comeback made him a natural choice for the selectors. As expected, Pant was named in the T20 World Cup squad, much to Ponting’s delight.
Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant: A Big Impact on the World Cup
Ponting expressed his joy at seeing Pant back on the field, highlighting the pleasure he derived from working with him as captain and coach. He believes Pant’s remarkable comeback story is an inspiration and expects him to have a “huge impact” on the T20 World Cup. With his talent, determination, and impressive return to form, Pant is undoubtedly a player to watch in the upcoming World Cup.
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