'Definitely, loved it' - Rishabh Pant on match-winning knock against GT

Emerging from setbacks is always challenging, let alone making a comeback after going through a near-fatal injury coupled with a protracted hiatus of more than a year. Making his return to cricket in IPL 2024, Rishabh Pant, skipper of the Delhi Capitals, has showcased impeccable form with minimal trickles of rustiness. 

Apart from a couple of outings where Pant didn't look at his usual best, he's almost returned to his prime. Match 40 of IPL 2024 had a multitude of instances where the wicketkeeper-batter took everyone back to the memory lane, with the southpaw leading from the front to register 88* (43), glazed with five fours and eight maximums.

Pant's innings also included a 30-run over off Mohit Sharma, the innings' last. His commendable leadership as well as the two crucial grabs in the second innings led their side to their fourth victory of the season. The southpaw, unsurprisingly, won the Player of the Match award as well.

In a video posted by the IPL on their official website, Pant spoke to the broadcasters alongside head coach Ricky Ponting, that he relished his time out in the middle and was pleased with his efforts. He remarked that what was paramount to him was the fact that he was back up and running on the field after the unfortunate accident and the subsequent injury suffered by him. He also admitted that an incessant worry disturbing his sleep was a fear of stagnation.

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"Definitely, love it (his knock of 88* in 43 deliveries). I am someone who cannot praise himself. Being on the field matters to me, especially after the injury I had. When I was injured, I had a conversation with myself that when I am back, I should be looking better, moving better, and thinking better. Something that keeps me awake at night is that I should not be in the same place," noted Pant.

He always puts his hands up and is there for us: Pant on Axar 

Another linchpin to DC's slender win was Axar Patel, who demonstrated immense prowess while being promoted to No. 3, setting the tone with an impressive 66 off 43, listing his highest score in the IPL in the process. Implying to the lack of runs Axar has made and his lean patch with the bat in the recent past, Pant extolled the way the all-rounder conducted himself as well as his fighting spirit for the team, never backing away from performing his role to the fullest and taking full onus during various predicaments.

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"It was nice (Axar's fifty). He was also going through ups and downs, not getting enough runs. Sometimes, people ask questions about it. He is someone who backs whatever is said about him. He is always there whenever put under pressure and given a job. He always puts his hands up and is there for us," added the left-hander.