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

Jay Shah, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, has said that Rishabh Pant can take part in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup if he is in a position to keep wicket. The much-awaited ICC event is scheduled to commence from June 1 with the United States of America and the West Indies being the co-hosts.

Pant has been out of action since December 2022 after a life-threatening car accident. The appalling incident left the youngster with a severe right knee injury which required surgery. However, he has undergone successful rehabilitation and according to the Delhi Capitals, he is likely to captain the side in the forthcoming Indian Premier League, starting on March 22.
 
"He (Rishabh Pant) is batting well, he is keeping well. We will declare him fit very soon. If he can play the T20 World Cup for us, that will be a big thing for us. He is a big asset for us. If he can keep, he can play the World Cup. Let's see how he does in the IPL," Shah was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

Also read: Ricky Ponting drops major Rishabh Pant update ahead of IPL 2024

Shami's return is likely for the home Test series against Bangladesh: Jay Shah

Shah also confirmed that Mohammed Shami has returned to India from abroad after his surgery and is expected to be back in action against Bangladesh later this year, when India play two Tests and three T20Is against them. Shami, team India's premier pacer, is currently recovering from ankle surgery in his right Achilles last month. The BCCI secretary further spoke about KL Rahul, stating that the latter is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

Also read: Mohammed Shami is a little older: Glenn McGrath

Shami missed India's recent five-match Test series against England. Rahul, on the other hand, was sidelined for the last four Tests against the Ben Stokes-led side after distress in his right quadriceps. The wicketkeeper-batter is expected to lead Lucknow Super Giants in the 2024 IPL.

"Shami's surgery is done; he is back in India. Shami's return is likely for the home series against Bangladesh. KL Rahul needed an injection, he has started rehab and is at the NCA," Shah added.