'I couldn’t even brush my teeth for two months' - Rishabh Pant on his traumatic experience post horrific accident

Indian wicketkeeper batter and Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant made an inspiring comeback to the cricket field after a 14-month recovery following a near-fatal accident in December 2022. The 26-year-old expressed immense gratitude for simply being alive and is happy to get a second chance on the field.

Due to the horrific road accident, Pant suffered multiple injuries and an uncertain future in the sport he loves. His road to recovery was long and hard, requiring extensive rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

After missing more than a year of professional cricket, Pant finally made a comeback in the IPL 2024 leading the Delhi side. He also ended as the highest run-scorer for DC with 446 runs in 13 matches.

Reflecting on his journey, Pant recalled the challenging days when he couldn't even brush his teeth. The accident was a life-changing experience for the cricketer.

"Self-belief and self-confidence are very important while recovering from an injury because people are saying all sorts of things around you, and you, as an individual, have to think about what's good for you. The accident was a life-changing experience for me,” Pant said on the Shikhar Dhawan's talk show 'Dhawan Karenge'.

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For six to seven months, I suffered from unbearable pain. Rishabh Pant

He also revealed that he even couldn't visit the airport as he was too nervous to face the fans in a vulnerable condition.

"When I got up after it, I wasn't even sure if I would be alive, but God was very kind to save me. I couldn’t even brush my teeth for two months, and for six to seven months, I suffered from unbearable pain. I couldn't go to the airport because I was nervous about facing people in a wheelchair,” he added.

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The young cricketer revealed that he is very excited that God gave him another chance to play cricket and represent his country. 

“Now that I'm making a comeback in cricket, more than feeling pressure, I’m excited. I feel this is kind of a second life, so I’m excited but also nervous," Pant concluded.

Pant after having a brilliant run in the IPL was selected in India's squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA. He has joined the team and will be once again seen donning the Blue jersey.