IPL 2024 [WATCH]: Ravichandran Ashwin boosts Rishabh Pant’s spirits during the net session ahead of RR vs DC clash

During the crucial net session preceding the pivotal Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 clash at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Thursday (March 28), Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin offered words of encouragement to the skipper of Delhi Capitals (DC), as well as his Indian teammate, Rishabh Pant.

Rishabh Pant’s emotional comeback

Pant’s emotional comeback to the cricketing arena after missing the previous edition of the championship due to injuries sustained in a car accident in December 2022 was a significant moment. Despite his relatively subdued performance against Punjab Kings (PBKS), scoring just 18 runs off 13 balls, and his team’s loss in the opening encounter by four wickets, Pant’s return resonated emotionally with the fans in the stadium and viewers worldwide.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s encouragement to Pant

In a heartwarming scene captured in a video shared by the Rajasthan’s official social media handle, Ashwin was observed providing encouragement to Pant during a net session. Pant’s response was immediate as he smashed a delivery for a long six, prompting applause from Ashwin. Amidst this, the voice of Delhi’s head coach Ricky Ponting could be distinctly heard, playfully urging Ashwin to stand behind him during the actual game, suggesting that Pant might hit more sixes with Ashwin’s support.

Here’s the video:

All these years, Pant had Ash’s back. And today, it was about time… 💗💙 pic.twitter.com/7fuKYmHYaO

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 26, 2024

Also READ: Quinton de Kock and Anrich Nortje omitted as CSA unveils the list of centrally contracted players for 2024-25

Delhi Capitals’ determination for a comeback

After their defeat to Punjab in their opening game at the Mullanpur Stadium, Delhi will be determined to make a strong comeback and return to the winning column against Rajasthan . On the flip side, in their previous encounter, Rajasthan emerged victorious against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), led by KL Rahul, in a thrilling high-scoring match, clinching victory by a margin of 20 runs.

Rajasthan Royals’ winning momentum and focus

Captain Sanju Samson played a pivotal role with a crucial knock of 80 runs. Despite facing some challenges initially, Ashwin showcased his resilience by bouncing back strongly after an expensive first over, ultimately contributing significantly with his three economical overs. Looking ahead, Rajasthan will be focused on sustaining their winning momentum and continuing their journey on a positive note in the IPL.

Also WATCH: Ajinkya Rahane pulls off an exceptional diving catch to dismiss David Miller during CSK vs GT clash