NEW DELHI: In a significant boost to the inaugural Delhi Premier League T20, Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has confirmed his participation in the opening match of the season, set for August 17. Pant will be representing Purani Delhi 6 against South Delhi Superstarz, captained by Ayush Badoni, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday evening. Joining Pant on the field will be another veteran, Ishant Sharma, adding to the star power of the Purani Delhi 6 lineup.
Pant’s participation, given the demands of a hectic international calendar, was initially uncertain. However, a source close to Pant told TOI, “Rishabh has agreed to play the first match of the DPLT20 as he wanted to support this initiative, which is expected to be a great platform for young talent in Delhi. He recognizes the significant role Delhi cricket has played in his career. Nonetheless, maintaining his fitness for the upcoming international season is his top priority. After the first DPL match, Rishabh will return to red-ball training to prepare for the long-format season, starting with the Duleep Trophy in the first week of September. The DDCA and Purani Delhi 6 management appreciate Rishabh’s gesture and respect his commitments.”
It is understood that Pant is eager to get as much game time as possible after losing 15 months of cricket due to a car accident in December 2022. While he was keen to play a couple of more matches in the league, his team advised against it, emphasizing the importance of his preparation for the upcoming international season, especially since he hasn’t played red-ball cricket for 20 months.
