Is Rishabh Pant on course to return for World Cup 2023? BCCI Surprised by his recovery: Report

DELHI, India - June 16, 2023 - PRLog -- "Not bad yaar Rishabh," Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant captioned his internet-breaking post in which the injured cricketer shared another important update about his health. Taking a big step towards full fitness after missing almost 6 months from competitive cricket, Pant is keen to make a comeback in a year where India is set to host the 50-over World Cup. The explosive Indian batsman had survived a horrific car accident on December 30 and the former Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper was expected to miss the entire 2023 season.

As per the latest developments, Pant is recovering faster than expected and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is leaving no stone unturned to expedite his rehabilitation. The Indian southpaw was seen walking without crutches for the first time after a tragic car accident recently. Last month, in a viral video shared by the India wicketkeeper, Pant was seen throwing his crutches as the star batsman won many hearts on social media.

As they say: comebacks are always stronger than setbacks, Pant has impressed the BCCI by showing signs of rapid improvement. According to a report filed by ESPNcricinfo, India's apex cricket board is trying to prepare Pant for the ODI World Cup this year. The injured batsman is working on increasing his lower body and upper body mobility exercises under the guidance of physio S Rajinikanth. Rajinikanth has collaborated with several Indian age-group teams in the past. He has also worked with Delhi Capitals. The popular physio helped Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and M Vijay while they were undergoing rehabilitation. Thulasi Ram Yuvraj, who is a physio at the NCA, is monitoring Pant's recovery after the wicketkeeper-batsman was flown to Mumbai.

Reports suggested that Pant is also looking at interactive sessions between age-group cricketers at the NCA. The above sessions are moderated by NCA chief VVS Laxman. The 25-year-old last played for India when the Asian giants toured Bangladesh in December. Pant has missed the final of IPL 2023, Border-Gavaskar Trophy and World Test Championship after the car accident. The Indian youngster has played 33 Tests, 30 ODIs and 66 T20Is for the Asian giants.