AB de Villiers Eagerly Anticipates Rishabh Pant’s Triumphant Return in IPL 2024

In an expression of unbridled enthusiasm, former South African cricket star AB de Villiers has welcomed the news of Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant’s impending return to the cricket pitch for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The stellar batsman, affectionately known as ‘Mr. 360’ for his all-directional shot-making capability, shared an emblematic jersey number with Pant and voiced his anticipation for the latter’s comeback.

De Villiers, who himself donned the iconic number 17 during his own illustrious career, remarked, “I used to have 17 on my back, and I understand the weight it carries. Rishabh’s return is not just exciting for him or the team but for cricket enthusiasts all over. I have no doubt that he’ll cross the century mark at least once this IPL season.”

Noted by his absence

The cricketing community is acutely aware of the void left by Pant, who met with a severe car accident in December 2022, which unfortunately led to him missing the entirety of the IPL 2023 tournament. Pant’s grit and resolve during his extensive rehabilitation have been a source of inspiration, and his impending return is setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling saga of resurgence.

Amid his praise for Pant, AB de Villiers didn’t shy away from applauding DC all-rounder Axar Patel’s prowess, who has consistently delivered under pressure. Patel’s outstanding contribution in the previous IPL season included a commendable haul of 283 runs and 11 wickets at an economy rate of 7.19, underpinning his rising stature as a reliable dual-threat player.

In Pant’s absence, Australian ace David Warner shouldered the captaincy for the Delhi franchise. Despite his experience and leadership, the team did not fare well, clinching only five out of their 14 league matches, concluding their season in 10th position on the points table.

With the decks cleared for a fresh start, the Delhi Capitals, bolstered by the return of their dynamic captain, will look to turn their fortunes around as they gear up to face Punjab Kings in their opening match of the IPL 2024 on Saturday, March 23, in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. All eyes will be on Pant as he marks his return to the big stage, eager to don the Delhi jersey number 17 once more, reprising his role not just as a player, but as a source of inspiration for many.