During the recent IPL season, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman amassed an impressive 446 runs at an average of 40.54 and a strike rate of 155.40, while also claiming 16 dismissals behind the stumps, tied for the most in the tournament.
Ponting expressed his initial doubts about Pant’s ability to play again, considering the psychological and physical challenges he faced in the aftermath of the accident.
“It’s been nothing short of spectacular, to be honest. I spent a few months with him in the middle of the IPL last year, which was only sort of three or four months after his accident. And I had grave fears then that he would never play the game again. What he’d been through psychologically, but what he’d been through physically. At that stage, he still couldn’t walk,” Ponting told The ICC Review.
The former Australian captain praised Pant’s dedication to his recovery and the support he received from the Delhi Capitals franchise and his physio, Patrick Farhart.
“He was on crutches. And I remember saying to him, what do you think about next season? He just looked at me and said, don’t worry, I’ll be right. And he’s looked after himself incredibly well. The Delhi Capitals franchise has done a great job looking after him. Patrick Farhart has been his physio. He’s done a great job with him as well,” the former Australia skipper added.
While there were no doubts about Pant’s batting abilities, concerns arose regarding his ability to handle the physical demands of wicketkeeping throughout the tournament.
“No one had real concerns about his batting, because of how good he is and how dynamic he is with the bat. But with his wicket-keeping, and having to squat every ball for 14 games in a row, there were certainly some concerns there,” Ponting said.
Pant’s exceptional performance behind the stumps, coupled with his batting exploits, earned him a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad, just as Ponting had predicted.
“So, great to see him back out there playing again. I’ve enjoyed every moment of working with him. Obviously, he’s been the captain of the Delhi Capitals, and I’ve been the coach there. But it’s been a remarkable comeback, and hopefully he has a huge impact on this World Cup,” the 49-year-old stated.
(Inputs from ANI)
