Rishabh Pant, the star Indian wicketkeeper-batter, recently had his first nets session with Team India after at least 16 months. This session was ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup opener against Ireland, set for June 5.
The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled in the West Indies and the USA from June 1 to 29. Before the main event, India will play a warm-up match against Bangladesh on June 1 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
Pant, who made a remarkable return to competitive cricket during this year’s Indian Premier League following a life-threatening accident in December 2022, is eagerly anticipating his comeback to the Indian jersey.
In the recently concluded IPL 2024 season, Pant’s team, the Delhi Capitals, secured the sixth position with seven wins, seven losses, and 14 points. Pant emerged as the top run-scorer for his team, amassing 446 runs in 13 matches at a strike rate exceeding 155, including three half-centuries.
During his practice sessions, Pant appeared in excellent form, having shed considerable weight and sporting a leaner physique ahead of the tournament.
Expressing his excitement, Pant stated, “Getting back on the field with the Indian jersey on is a different feel altogether, and this is something I missed a lot.” He emphasized the joy of reuniting with teammates, engaging in conversations, and enjoying the camaraderie.
Reflecting on the prospect of playing in the USA, Pant remarked that it presents a unique opportunity and expands the horizons for cricket globally. He highlighted the importance of adapting to the unfamiliar conditions and expressed his hopes of making significant contributions to the team’s success.
Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup, Pant aims to capitalize on the opportunities and improve his performance. He emphasized the significance of each match and expressed his determination to make a meaningful impact.
India’s T20 World Cup campaign will commence on June 5 against Ireland at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. The highly anticipated encounter between India and Pakistan is scheduled for June 9, followed by matches against tournament co-hosts USA and Canada to conclude their Group A fixtures.
With aspirations of ending their ICC trophy drought, India aims to clinch their first T20 World Cup title since the inaugural edition in 2007. The squad comprises seasoned players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, along with promising talents such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Suryakumar Yadav.
As they gear up for the tournament, India remains determined to secure cricketing glory on the global stage and add another prestigious title to their accolades.