BCCI Updates: Rishabh Pant’s T20 World Cup Prospects; Salt Replaces Roy for KKR
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah provided an optimistic outlook on Rishabh Pant’s potential participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup, contingent on his ability to take on wicketkeeping duties while Salt replaces Roy for KKR.
Pant, who has been on the sidelines since a serious car accident in December 2022, is set to make his comeback in the IPL later this month.
Despite the setback, Shah expressed confidence in Pant’s progress, stating, “He is batting well, he is keeping well. We will declare him fit very soon.” Highlighting Pant’s significance to the team, Shah emphasized that if Pant can maintain his wicketkeeping form, he stands a chance to represent India in the T20 World Cup.
Pant’s journey to recovery hasn’t been easy, with a severe right knee injury necessitating ligament reconstruction surgery, alongside fractures to his wrist and ankle. However, with positive reports emerging from his camp, including affirmations from Delhi Capitals’ head coach Ricky Ponting and co-owner Parth Jindal, optimism surrounding Pant’s return is high.
Meanwhile, Shah provided updates on other key players, including fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who is expected to return during the home Test series against Bangladesh later this year. Shami, recovering from an ankle surgery, underwent a successful procedure in London and is slated to make his comeback in the upcoming series.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant to Lead, Anrich Nortje Fit for Opener
On the other hand, KL Rahul’s status for the IPL remains uncertain, with the player undergoing rehabilitation for a right quadriceps issue. While Rahul is expected to feature for Lucknow Super Giants, pending clearance, Shah indicated that the player is currently awaiting approval to join the squad.
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the return of these star players, the updates provided by Shah offer valuable insights into the potential compositions of both the Indian team and IPL franchises ahead of the much-awaited tournaments.
Phil Salt replaces Jason Roy for KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have enlisted Phil Salt to fill the void left by Jason Roy, who withdrew from the tournament citing personal reasons. Salt, previously with Delhi Capitals, emerges as a key addition to KKR’s roster after remaining unsold in the recent auction. His acquisition at his reserve price of INR 1.5 crore ($181,000) underscores KKR’s strategic maneuvering in the player market.
Salt’s recent T20 International performances, notably in the Caribbean in December 2023, showcased his prowess with the bat. Leading the run-scoring charts with 331 runs at a staggering strike rate of 185.95, Salt’s inclusion presents a promising opportunity for KKR. His notable achievement of a 48-ball century in the fourth T20I in the West Indies underscores his potential impact in the tournament.
With a stellar T20 record boasting 5308 runs from 221 innings at a strike rate of 153.41 and an average of 25.89, Salt brings considerable experience to the table. Having played in various T20 leagues worldwide, including the BBL, Caribbean Premier League, Pakistan Super League, and leagues in Sri Lanka, the UAE, and South Africa, Salt’s versatility strengthens KKR’s batting lineup.
In contrast, Roy’s intermittent participation in the IPL despite his reputation as a short-format specialist has been noted. His decision to opt out for personal reasons isn’t unprecedented, having previously withdrawn from IPL engagements in 2020 and 2022. Despite his sporadic appearances, Roy’s absence prompts KKR to seek alternative options, leading to Salt’s inclusion.
Salt’s addition maintains the overseas/Indian balance in KKR’s lineup, providing depth in the opening slot alongside Rahmanullah Gurbaz. With seasoned players like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and international talents like Mitchell Starc, Dushmantha Chameera, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, KKR boasts a formidable squad under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer.
As KKR prepares for its IPL 2024 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Salt’s arrival injects anticipation and excitement into the team’s campaign. With his dynamic batting style and proven track record, Salt stands poised to make a significant impact on KKR’s journey in the tournament.
