‘Best man for the job’ – Shreyas Iyer backs Rishabh Pant to lead Delhi Capitals (DC) efficiently in IPL 2021

Prior to the 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt with a blow as their skipper Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury. Iyer sustained the injury during England’s tour of India recently and couldn’t recover in time. As his replacement, the franchise has named Rishabh Pant as the skipper going into the tournament.

In the meantime, Iyer reckons that the left-handed Pant is the apt choice for the captain’s role. The 26-year-old feels that Pant is the ‘best man for the job’. Iyer won’t be a part of the IPL 2021 in its entirety but promised to follow the Capitals’ matches throughout.

I’m going to miss the team tremendously: Shreyas Iyer

“When I sustained the shoulder injury and Delhi Capitals needed a leader for this edition of the IPL, I had no doubt Rishabh would be the best man for the job. He has all my good wishes to make amazing things happen with our absolutely incredible team. I’m going to miss the team tremendously and will be cheering for them throughout,” Iyer said in a release from DC.

Statement from Delhi Capitals 📝

Shreyas has taken DC to newer heights ever since he took on the role of captain, leading the team to its very first final last year. The franchise will always be there for any assistance and support he may require at any step.#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/0GoDKIQKqp

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 30, 2021

Earlier, Ricky Ponting, the head coach of the Capitals, stated that Iyer has taken the Capitals to greater heights after being appointed as the skipper midway through the 2018 season. He also sounded confident about Pant performing to expectations after the successful campaigns against Australia and the Three Lions.

“The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England.

“It will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started,” Ponting was quoted as saying on DC’s official website.

In 2020, the Capitals played their maiden IPL final against Mumbai Indians (MI). Their first game in the upcoming edition is against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 10 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.