IPL 2024: Sunil Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant’s return ahead of DC vs PBKS clash, says ‘there’s going to be plenty of sixes’

Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to kick off their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign against Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Mullanpur Stadium on March 23. During the match, all eyes will be on Rishabh Pant as both teams step onto the field in Chandigarh to commence their new season. Pant, who has been away from competitive cricket since his accident in December 2022, aims to find his rhythm early in the match.

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar remarked on the emotional moment for cricket enthusiasts who will witness Pant's return to the field after his hiatus. Speaking on Star Sports following the IPL 2024 opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Gavaskar highlighted Pant's role as a lifelong entertainer in the cricket world and fans will put everything on hold the moment he steps up to bat.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Rachin Ravindra-Ajinkya Rahane duo executes perfect relay catch to get rid of King Kohli in CSK vs RCB drama

‘It is going to be emotional for all cricket fans’

"It is going to be emotional for all cricket fans when he returns. He has been an entertainer. The moment he comes to bat, everybody drops everything and wants to watch him bat. After the break of 16 months, it is never going to be easy for anybody. If he can even bat at 50 percent of what he know he is capable of, there's going to be plenty of entertainment," Gavaskar said on Star Sports after CSK vs RCB.

 

The former India batter is hopeful for Pant to showcase his signature one-handed sixes and desires a significant score from him in his IPL comeback.

 

"There's going to be plenty of sixes, some one-handed sixes and it is going to be a great one. Rishabh, I want you to get a big one, get off to a brilliant start," Gavaskar concluded.

 

ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir takes a jibe at MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2024 opener, says ‘don't bring in any more twist…’

 

Rishabh Pant's Return

 

The renowned Indian cricketer has been absent from the national team since the Test series against Bangladesh in 2022 as he was seriously injured in a road accident while driving the car. He sustained severe injuries and underwent multiple surgeries. After the wounds healed, he dedicated himself to an intense rehabilitation process at the National Cricket Academy to make a return to the national team.

 

Just before the start of the IPL 2024 season, Pant was declared fit to play. He was then reinstated as the captain of DC for IPL 2024. He would hope to make a strong return in the cash-rich league.

 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK: 

WATCH: Frustrated Virat Kohli hurls abuse, gives angry send-off to CSK debutant Rachin Ravindra; video prompts fans' divided reaction

'The best part is I might not be there on the field...': Dinesh Karthik trolls himself after crucial 38-run knock in IPL 2024 opener
IPL 2024: RCB's losing streak in Chepauk continues; Mustafizur's magical spell leads CSK to easy 6-wicket win on Gaikwad's captaincy debut