Bowling to Rishabh Pant was the most difficult thing: Delhi Capitals' uncapped star

Uncapped 23-year-old left-arm spinner Vicky Ostwal has recently labelled bowling to Rishabh Pant 'the most difficult thing'. Ostwal has been a reserve player for Delhi Capitals for three seasons now. Pant was a part of DC till 2024 before moving onto Lucknow Super Giants.

Ostwal also shed light on the advice given by Axar Patel and Ricky Ponting during his time at DC. He noted that he had a 'good time' in the franchise, despite not getting the chance to represent the XI up until now. He also complimented the overall competitive environment of the Indian Premier League for enhancing his temperament in terms of developing a better instinct.

"Bowling to Rishabh Pant was the most difficult thing as a left-arm spinner. Axar gave me tips on Test bowling and T20 bowling, which I'm able to implement. Ricky Ponting sir, also helped me during my three years with Delhi Capitals. So, all in all, it was a good time there. The game sense improved after the IPL. You can be a little bit ahead of the game, and sometimes read the situations quite early and then get into the act earlier. That helps you be proactive," stated Ostwal, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Still fighting for a spot in the team: Ostwal

Ostwal, 23, mentioned that he could not afford to be complacent. He also remarked that his sole aim for now is to help Maharashtra win titles regardless of the tournament they play. He has been named in Maharashtra's probables for the upcoming domestic season, and was a key performer during the recently-concluded Maharashtra Premier League 2025.

"It's always a process for a spinner to make a spot in the team. I'm still fighting for it. I've played five Ranji games on and off, but the CK Nayudu has been my core after that Under-19 World Cup. Whatever I play - CK Nayudu or Ranji - the aim is to make Maharashtra win. Playing for Maharashtra is a [matter of] prestige. The aim is always to win trophies for Maharashtra," commented Ostwal.

For the unversed, Ostwal emerged as the leading wicket-taker for the Men in Blue at the 2022 instalment of the U19 World Cup. He picked up 12 wickets in six matches while conceding runs at a frugal economy rate of 3.63. The Indian U19 unit won by four wickets with 14 balls to spare in the summit clash to win the trophy, as Ostwal remained the standout performer for the Yash Dhull-led side.