Ishant Sharma gave a heartbreaking update on the return of Rishabh Pant -TGN

The Indian cricket team has greatly missed the presence of star goalkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant in the squad. Pant survived a near-fatal accident on December 31, 2020, which left him with multiple injuries and has been out of the game ever since. However, while everyone is waiting for his comeback, Pant’s return to international cricket could take longer than expected according to veteran Indian bowler Ishant Sharma.

Rishabh Pant’s comeback is taking longer than expected

Pant underwent surgery after sustaining multiple injuries and is on the road to recovery. According to the latest medical update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Pant has taken up batting and netting and is following a prescribed fitness regimen.

Meanwhile, speaking to Jio Cinema, Ishant Sharma shared his thoughts on Pant’s expected return to competitive cricket. He said that since he suffered some very serious injuries, his return could take longer than expected. He even claimed that Pant could also miss next season of Indian Premier League. He said:

“I think we may not see Rishabh Pant in the next IPL either, because it’s not a minor injury. It was a very serious accident. He has just started batting and wicket-keeper and then to run and turn, there are many things that are not easy for a wicket-keeper and batsman.

Ishant Sharma is hopeful about his return in IPL 2024

Further, Ishant Sharma also said that he does not expect Rishabh Pant to be suitable for the soon-to-be ODI World Cup 2023 adding that he is hopeful for his return in IPL 2024. He said:

“The great thing is that he has not had a second operation. If he had had a second operation, he would have been out even longer. He has had one operation now, but I don’t think he will be fit for the World Cup for sure. Hopefully when he gets fit for the IPL it will be great”

It should be noted that Delhi Capitals finished ninth under the captaincy of David Warner in IPL 2023 in the absence of permanent captain Rishabh Pant. Pant played his last competitive game for India in December 2022 in Dhaka before his accident.