Why Did Rishabh Pant Decline Delhi Captaincy?
Why Did Rishabh Pant Refuse Delhi Captaincy? The Delhi District Cricket Association has just concluded its selection committee meeting, and now everything is set for the announcement of the squad. But this year’s revelation does not carry that thrill as it used to be in the previous years. Though the official list is yet to come out, some important insights have come out and that too some major call by Rishabh Pant to opt out of captaincy. Instead, the management has retained Ayush Badoni as skipper for the remaining games. Let’s look into the details of the development that came as a surprise, along with its larger ramifications.
A Return to Ranji Cricket After Five Years
This would be Rishabh Pant’s first appearance in the Ranji Trophy since 2018. This is a massive boost to Delhi, which is currently lying joint second in the Elite Group D Ranji Trophy standings with 19 points. However, his return did not come with a captaincy mantle as well.
Pant’s Decision: A Surprising Twist
Sources close to the development claimed that Pant intimated his decision to the Gursharan Singh-led DDCA selection committee and made it clear that Ayush Badoni should remain the captain. The sources also said that Pant assured the team that he would do everything possible to help Badoni and the squad attain their objectives.
“He was offered the captaincy but decided to turn it down, suggesting that Ayush Badoni should remain as skipper,” a source said.
Reasoning Behind Pant’s Choice
Not affecting the chemistry of the team: Having led the Indian national team and also an IPL franchise, Pant revealed that he thought it would have affected the balance in the team midway into the season and thus wanted the captaincy to be retained with Badoni, who should keep the momentum going.
The star wicketkeeper-batsman exuded confidence in Ayush Badoni to handle his added responsibility of vice-captain along with head coach Sarandeep Singh to carry out the game plan for the season. Pant’s move reflects a positive sense of humility and putting team first.
A Role Reversal Ahead of IPL
Interestingly, this decision sets up an intriguing narrative for the Indian Premier League (IPL), which begins in March. During the IPL, the roles between Pant and Badoni are expected to reverse. Pant is likely to lead the Lucknow Super Giants, where Badoni plays as a retained junior player. However, the Lucknow franchise has yet to officially announce its captain.
Virat Kohli’s Availability in Question
While Pant’s decision has dominated headlines, uncertainty looms over Virat Kohli’s inclusion in the Delhi squad. Reports suggest that DDCA President Rohan Jaitley may contact Kohli, who has been battling a dip in form in international cricket.
Recently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) called upon international cricketers who were not busy with national duties or injured to start participating in domestic cricket tournaments. It was not possible to get an update from Jaitley despite attempts to reach him over the issue relating to Kohli.
Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul: A Waiting Game
Adding to the suspense, there is no confirmation yet on the availability of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul. While both are likely to play in the next round of Ranji Trophy games, their performances will be closely watched by the selectors and fans.
Conclusion
The decision of Rishabh Pant to decline the Delhi captaincy brings a sense of maturity and commitment towards the success of the team. He has shown great responsibility and sportsmanship in prioritizing stability and endorsing the leadership of Ayush Badoni. As the Delhi team gears up to face Saurashtra in Rajkot from January 23, fans will keenly wait to see how these decisions pan out for the team’s performance in the Ranji Trophy and beyond.
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