'I really hope he continues to enjoy the game and show world the talent he’s blessed with' - Nicholas Pooran on Rishabh Pant's comeback in IPL 2024

Rishabh Pant is all set to return as Delhi Capitals (DC) captain when his side lock horns against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the second match of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The much-awaited clash is scheduled to commence at the newly constructed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium in Mohali, on (Saturday) March 23.

Notably, Pant's return is more significant as he is set to play a game following a long hiatus after being severely injured during a horrific car accident in December 2022. Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants star Nicholas Pooran came in and lavished praise on DC skipper, highlighting his successful rehabilitation process. The West Indies sensation expressed his excitement to see the 26-year-old's comeback and is confident that the latter will continue to exhibit his talent.

"Really exciting times for cricket overall, especially in India. Thus far, in his (Pant) career, he has been tremendous and been one of India’s brightest stars. It’s so pleasurable and satisfying to see that he’s going to be in the park soon. I think everyone is looking forward to see how he goes and I am really excited and very happy for him."

Also read: IPL 2024: Comeback man Rishabh Pant 'jittery, nervous and excited' ahead of Delhi Capitals' season opener

“I know that last 12-14 months have been really challenging for him, where he had the darkest days of his life. But he’s blessed and has now got another chance to play the game. I really hope he continues to enjoy the game, express himself and show the world the talent he’s blessed with,” Pooran was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

Pooran recalls how he became a supportive figure for Pant during his recovery process

Furthermore, Nicholas Pooran opened up about how he supported Rishabh Pant throughout his recovery process. The 29-year-old had undergone two surgeries to repair a left patellar tendon and right ankle fracture in 2015, after surviving a car crash. He stated that he got in touch with Pant during his recovery journey, given that he also had been in a similar situation in his life. 

“I just believe when in a situation like that, you really need good people around you. For someone like me who’s been in a similar position as well, I just felt like I need to be there for him as well in this time. We have been quite good friends as well. So it was just nice to have conversations – just pick up the phone, give him a call and chat for a little while to talk about what he’s going through in that moment. Whatever advice I had and helped me in my time, I just tried to share those experiences with him," the 29-year-old continued.

Also read: Rishabh Pant is going to make a big impact in IPL 2024: Steven Smith 

“I just kept telling him that he’s going to be fine and that everything happens for a reason. He shouldn’t try to question things too much as whatever has happened, has happened and just try to stay positive throughout it. Right from the beginning, he never doubted himself and had no doubts in his mind over being fine and eventually returning to play cricket. It was really nice to talk to him and just being there for him in those kind of situations. You just need people to be there to support you and I was trying to do exactly that,” Pooran concluded.