Kolkata: As the Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant continues to excel in the ongoing IPL season, rebounding from a harrowing accident that sidelined him for over a year, superstar and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner Shah Rukh Khan expresses his admiration.
In a recent conversation with the host broadcaster, Star Sports, Shah Rukh lauded Pant, recounting his shock upon hearing about the near-fatal car crash involving the cricketer.
“That was a terrifying moment. I saw the footage of his car; it was terrifying! At that time, we were uncertain about the outcome of the accident. It instilled the worst fears. These boys are like my own sons. I have young players in my team as well. I prayed that he wasn’t seriously injured,” SRK stated in a video shared on KKR’s social media platforms.
“A sportsman getting injured is doubly challenging. It’s worse for us. I wish him a speedy and complete recovery,” the actor added.
Shah Rukh also reminisced about his heartfelt interaction with Pant after the KKR and DC match in Vizag on April 3. A video clip of Shah Rukh catching up with the Delhi Capitals captain after the match went viral.
Seeing Pant seated on the ground, SRK urged him to stay seated, but Pant rose anyway. With a warm embrace, SRK whispered words of encouragement into Pant’s ear, expressing his respect and admiration for the wicketkeeper-batter.
Recalling the exchange, SRK shared, “In the last game, when I met him, I was telling him not to get up, knowing it must be painful. I embraced him and asked how he was feeling. I hadn’t seen him since the accident. I’m genuinely delighted that he’s back, performing well, and I hope he continues to excel.”
Pant was involved in a life-threatening car accident in December 2022, shortly after India’s tour of Bangladesh that month. The star wicketkeeper-batsman suffered multiple injuries to his head, knee, and back.
He was subsequently taken to Mumbai for advanced treatment, including surgery. Due to the severity of his injuries, which included a knee ligament tear, Pant missed the IPL 2023, the Asia Cup, and the Cricket World Cup held in India last year.
Making a remarkable comeback to competitive cricket this IPL season following the horrific accident, Pant has showcased not only his batting prowess but also his agility behind the stumps. He has amassed 398 runs in 11 matches for Delhi Capitals at an impressive average of 44.22 and a strike rate exceeding 158, including three half-centuries. His highest score this season is an unbeaten 88.
Moreover, Pant has displayed his characteristic agility and energy as a wicketkeeper, effecting 14 dismissals (11 catches and three stumpings).
