Rishabh Pant to captain Delhi Capitals in IPL

The India wicketkeeper replaces Shreyas Iyer in the role, with the batsman ruled out of the competition through a shoulder injury

India wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will captain Delhi Capitals in this year’s Indian Premier League.

He will replace international teammate Shreyas Iyer, who injured his shoulder during the first ODI between India and England and, as a result, will now miss the upcoming tournament.

Pant has captained Delhi’s state team in the past, but this will mark his first experience as skipper in the IPL.

He said: “Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured.

“And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals.”

Capitals’ head coach Ricky Ponting added: “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.”

He comes into the competition, having enhanced his burgeoning reputation further since Delhi finished as runners-up in 2020. He struck series-clinching innings in Test wins over Australia and England, while also shining in the recent ODI series victory over England.

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