IPL 2024: Can’t say that ‘vintage’ Rishabh Pant is back yet – Aakash Chopra

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra feels Rishabh Pant is not fully back to his absolute best in the ongoing Indian Premier League. Pant, who made a comeback to action after recovering from multiple injuries he suffered in a horrific car accident, is leading the Delhi Capitals with aplomb.

Pant is the highest run-getter for his team with 254 runs in eight matches at an average of 36.29 and a strike rate of 150.29. The left-hander has scored two fifties in the tournament but Chopra feels vintage Rishabh Pant is not back yet.

Chopra feels Pant should promote himself in the batting order as he is batting well for DC.

“I am thinking about Rishabh Pant once again. It’s like a broken record. You can bat slightly up the order because these battles need to be won from the front. You are batting well. You cannot say the vintage Rishabh Pant is back. It takes time. At times, you feel that he is back, and then you feel it will take a little time,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel while previewing DC vs GT match.

The renowned commentator reckons Pant will hold the key for DC against the Gujarat Titans. Pant had bagged the Player of the Match award against GT as he had kept brilliantly behind the stumps when the latter was dismissed for 89 runs only.

“A little game of hide and seek is going on. However, Rishabh Pant, the captain, and Rishabh Pant, the batter, there is no doubt that he is keeping well, will be important in this match. He should make the right decisions, come at the right number, and then bat well,” Aakash added.

Pant will look to lead from the front against GT and deliver for his team. DC had lost their previous match against SRH by 67 runs and will want to return to winning ways.