'Doctors even spoke to me about amputation' - Rishabh Pant on accident

Indian wicket-keeper batter, Rishabh Pant, has conquered a daunting journey to reclaim his spot in cricket's limelight. Surviving a harrowing car accident, Pant underwent surgery and persevered through a gruelling 14-month rehabilitation stint at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has greenlit his return just in time for IPL 2024, signalling his triumphant comeback. Reflecting on his tumultuous hiatus, Pant expressed a blend of emotions and anticipation for his homecoming, an what helped his unwavering spirit.

Also read: If Rishabh Pant can keep, he can play T20 World Cup: Jay Shah

“Amazing feeling. This was the thing we were waiting for. It's been so long. I think you can still cope with a layoff of three to six months. But when it goes beyond that, it starts taking a toll. I just want to go out there and play and have fun. Not thinking about the future too much, because (then) you put too much pressure on yourself. Looking forward to each day as it comes,” Pant said as quoted by TOI.

During his injury ordeal, the southpaw sought solace in religious pilgrimages across India, as he made stops in Uttarakhand and southern regions, adorned in traditional attire. Despite being a natural recourse for many facing adversity, Pant's journey was marred by a decisive moment when doctors put forth the possibility of amputation looking at the severity of his injury. He revealed that this moment made him turn his gaze towards the divine, and he sought guidance from God amidst his trials.

“You become more disciplined if you are spiritual. It's a personal choice. It helped me concentrate on myself. When my accident happened, I felt something spiritual saved me. With the kind of accident I had, I only got my knee injured but I can't even imagine how much worse it could have been. Doctors even spoke to me about amputation. I always thought about God. This has given a different view altogether. I know someone is watching over me,” he added. 

Also read: IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant declared fit as wicketkeeper-batter

Pant is set to lead Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024

Since his last appearance for India in December 2022 against Bangladesh, the 26-year-old endured a prolonged absence from cricket due to a severe car accident. This unfortunate incident caused him to miss significant tournaments such as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship Final, Asia Cup 2023, and the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, the 26-year-old is set to lead the Delhi Capitals in the upcoming season, taking over the captaincy baton from David Warner.