Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has provided clarity on the team’s captaincy situation for the upcoming IPL 2024 season. Confirming earlier speculations, Ponting announced that David Warner will continue to lead the franchise if Rishabh Pant remains unavailable due to his recovery from injuries sustained in a car accident.
Warner took over the captaincy duties for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023 after Pant’s unfortunate car accident sidelined him for the season. Despite Warner’s leadership, the team struggled to find momentum, securing only five wins out of 14 matches and finishing at the ninth spot on the points table.
Ponting’s confirmation regarding Warner’s captaincy role comes amidst speculation about Pant’s possible return for IPL 2024. While Pant’s recovery progress has been promising, Ponting emphasized the uncertainty surrounding his availability, stating that Pant himself is confident about returning to action but the team is awaiting further updates on his fitness.
In a recent interview, Ponting expressed optimism about Pant’s potential return and his eagerness to compete again. However, with the tournament just six weeks away, the team is preparing for all scenarios, including the possibility of Pant not being fully fit.
Should Pant fail to attain full recovery in time for IPL 2024, Warner’s presence as the captain is almost certain for the entire tournament. Warner recently announced his retirement from Test and ODI cricket, signaling his commitment to focus on T20 cricket, making him a crucial leader for Delhi Capitals in the upcoming season.
Pant, who suffered multiple injuries during the car crash in December 2022, was forced to miss significant cricketing action in 2023, including India’s matches and series against various teams. Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Pant is eyeing a comeback for IPL 2024, which serves as a crucial platform ahead of India’s T20 World Cup campaign later in the year.