A day after it was indicated that Rishabh Pant will return to action in IPL 2024, reports have emerged that the keeper-batter will make his appearance in the auction table. According to Sports Tak, the Delhi Capitals star will sit beside prominent figures of the franchise like Sourav Ganguly and Ricky Ponting for the auction set to take place on December 19th in Dubai.
The Delhi-born cricketer suffered a life-threatening accident in December 2022 while driving from Delhi to Dehradun. Having undergone multiple surgeries for his injuries, the youngster has been out of action for nearly a year now, missing important events for his side. However, he has been active on social media, sharing regular updates of his recovery.
In Pant's absence, swashbuckling opener David Warner captained the Capitals. However, the franchise struggled throughout the tournament and finished 9th in the points table, managing only 5 wins in 14 matches. With their batting struggles becoming a consistent talking point, Pant's return will certainly bolster them.
Rishabh Pant likely to play as a pure batter in IPL 2024:
Meanwhile, franchise officials have indicated that Pant will take the keeping gloves only based on BCCI's clearance, else he will play as a pure batter only. However, reports have brushed aside that the Capitals will utilize him as an impact player. A franchise official told Cricbuzz:
"If he is not keeping, he will definitely be on the field and will lead the side."
The Capitals released as many as 12 players ahead of the auction, hinting an overhaul after another lean season. The think thank has 13 slots to fill and have INR 28.95 crores left in their purse.
