The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has prioritized the recovery of Rishabh Pant ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Following in the footsteps of Suryakumar Yadav and Mohammed Shami, Pant is the latest addition to the Indian Cricket Team set to seek specialized consultation in the UK. NCA Sports head Nitin Patel will also accompany them.
According to reports from Cricbuzz, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, Pant, is slated to travel to London for crucial consultations aimed at facilitating his comeback to competitive cricket. While it remains uncertain if Pant has already embarked on this journey, the BCCI is evidently proactive in ensuring the player’s optimal physical condition.
Expected to participate in the IPL as an Impact Player, Pant is likely to focus on his batting role, particularly as a finisher. Despite concerns about his fitness, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly expressed confidence in Pant’s readiness for the upcoming season, assuring that the talented cricketer is set to dazzle on the field.
In a statement made in December, Ganguly reassured fans, saying, “He’s (Pant) good now. He will play in the IPL next season.” However, Ganguly also clarified that Pant won’t be engaging in practice sessions immediately, hinting that the priority is to allow him ample time for recovery.
Anticipating further improvement in Pant’s condition by January 2024, Ganguly hinted at the player’s gradual return to full-fledged practice sessions. The BCCI chief shed light on Pant’s involvement in team discussions, emphasizing the captain’s role in finalizing aspects related to the upcoming IPL auction.
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await Pant’s return to the field, the BCCI’s proactive measures underscore the significance of player well-being in the highly competitive world of professional cricket. The strategic decision to seek specialized consultation for Pant reflects a commitment to ensuring that the young cricketer is in prime form for the upcoming IPL season.