Through the current IPL season, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman amassed a formidable 446 runs at a median of 40.54 and a strike charge of 155.40, whereas additionally claiming 16 dismissals behind the stumps, tied for essentially the most within the event.
Ponting expressed his preliminary doubts about Pant’s capacity to play once more, contemplating the psychological and bodily challenges he confronted within the aftermath of the accident.
“It has been nothing wanting spectacular, to be sincere. I spent just a few months with him in the midst of the IPL final yr, which was solely kind of three or 4 months after his accident. And I had grave fears then that he would by no means play the sport once more. What he’d been by way of psychologically, however what he’d been by way of bodily. At that stage, he nonetheless could not stroll,” Ponting instructed The ICC Evaluation.
The previous Australian captain praised Pant’s dedication to his restoration and the assist he acquired from the Delhi Capitals franchise and his physio, Patrick Farhart.
“He was on crutches. And I keep in mind saying to him, what do you consider subsequent season? He simply checked out me and stated, don’t fret, I will be proper. And he is sorted himself extremely effectively. The Delhi Capitals franchise has completed an ideal job taking care of him. Patrick Farhart has been his physio. He is completed an ideal job with him as effectively,” the previous Australia skipper added.
Whereas there have been no doubts about Pant’s batting talents, considerations arose relating to his capacity to deal with the bodily calls for of wicketkeeping all through the event.
“Nobody had actual considerations about his batting, due to how good he’s and the way dynamic he’s with the bat. However along with his wicket-keeping, and having to squat each ball for 14 video games in a row, there have been definitely some considerations there,” Ponting stated.
Pant’s distinctive efficiency behind the stumps, coupled along with his batting exploits, earned him a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad, simply as Ponting had predicted.
“So, nice to see him again on the market taking part in once more. I’ve loved each second of working with him. Clearly, he is been the captain of the Delhi Capitals, and I have been the coach there. But it surely’s been a outstanding comeback, and hopefully he has a huge effect on this World Cup,” the 49-year-old said.
(Inputs from ANI)
