Delhi Capitals have appointed Rishabh Pant as their captain for the 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League. Shreyas Iyer, who has done a wonderful job as Delhi Capitals captain, has been ruled out of this edition following a shoulder injury he picked up during the ODI series against England. Pant was appointed captain ahead of senior cricketers like Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, and Steven Smith.
Pant is set to become the fifth-youngest captain in IPL history, after Virat Kohli, Smith, Suresh Raina, and Iyer. He will be only 23 years 188 days old when he will lead Delhi Capitals in their first match, against Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on 10 April. Pant, Sanju Samson (26), and KL Rahul (28) are the only captains in this edition of the IPL who are below 30 (or even 32).
“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,” said Pant.
Pant has led Delhi in both the Vijay Hazare Trophy (in 2016/17) and the Ranji Trophy (2017/18). He also led India A against New Zealand A in two 50-over matches in 2017/18.
“It’s well deserved for his recent performances and he’s coming in with a lot of confidence. I’m convinced captaincy will make him an even better player,” tweeted Delhi coach Ricky Ponting. Under Iyer and Ponting, the Capitals had finished third in 2019 and second in 2020.