|| CF DESK ||

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant is set to return to the field after 14 months following a life-threatening car accident, the wicketkeeper-batter was feeling "nervous" like a debutant all over again.

Former captain of Delhi Capitals received clearance from the BCCI to play in the IPL as he is expected to start the IPL season against Punjab Kings in Mohali on March 23.

"I am excited and nervous at the same time. It feels like I am going to make my debut again," said Pant in a Delhi Capitals release.

"To be able to play cricket again after everything I've been through is nothing short of a miracle. I'm grateful to all my well-wishers and fans, and most importantly, the BCCI and staff at NCA. All their love and support continues to give me immense strength," said Pant.

On the recent episode of the ICC Review, Ricky Ponting, the coach of Delhi Capitals, revealed that Pant’s preparation for the upcoming season has been on track and he has been a part of a few practice games in the lead-up.

“He's actually played some practice matches over the last couple of weeks, which has been really encouraging for us,” Ponting said on the ICC Review.

“I know he's worked incredibly hard on his body and his fitness to get back to the level that he's at now. He's kept in one of those games, he's fielded in these games and the batting hasn't seemingly been an issue for him so far."

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah stated that Pant could be considered for the T20 World Cup if he performs well as a wicketkeeper-batter in the IPL. A strong performance with both the bat and gloves would enhance his chances of being selected for the squad.