'I Didn't Pity Myself': How Rishabh Pant Maintained His Sanity During Tough Road to Recovery

The highly anticipated return of Rishabh Pant is just around the corner. But it has not been an easy road to recovery for the wicketkeeper-batter as he reveals how he managed to keep himself level-headed during his 14 months away from cricket.

In an interview with the Times of India, Pant shared his mindset as he is set to return to cricket, leading the Delhi Capitals once again for IPL 2024. Reflecting on his time on the field in 2022, the left-hander was down knowing that he was in fine form, especially in the Test format. But he revealed how he managed to keep himself sane during the difficult periods.

“I was sad because I was going through a very good time. But I had to ensure I didn’t pity myself. That’s how I was keeping myself sane,” said the DC skipper.

The BCCI officially confirmed that the left-hander has been cleared to take part in the upcoming IPL 2024 season as a wicket-keeper batter. Pant, however, is just focused on getting back on the field.

READ MORE: Rishabh Pant About the Accident: ‘I Felt Something Spiritual Saved Me’

The 26-year-old said, “I don’t want to think that I am taking a fresh guard or I am making my debut all over again or I just had a break. I just want to feel how it is to be on the ground again. I need that feeling from within that I am just continuing with my career.”

The Delhi Capitals will be elated to see Pant back with the side after his life-threatening road accident. The wicket-keeper batter has been an important element in India’s overseas success in the longest format where he was the architect in their win against Australia at the Gabba to win the Test series 2-1.

Pant will lead DC once again with their first fixture coming up against the Punjab Kings at Mohali.

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The Indian cricket fraternity will be happy to see Pant back on the field and will hope to see him perform for DC and secure his spot in the T20 World Cup squad following the IPL to mark a sensational comeback to international cricket.