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Delhi Capitals’ (DC) skipper, Rishabh Pant, took to Instagram with a mysterious post following his one-match suspension due to a slow over-rate infringement during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match. Consequently, Pant was absent from the pivotal encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Bengaluru on Sunday, May 12. In his absence, Axar Patel assumed leadership duties while Pant traveled with the squad to provide his backing.
Rishabh Pant’s cryptic Instagram story
Shortly before the game, Pant shared a picture of a misty winter morning, accompanied by the caption, “The only thing we truly control in the universe is our own thoughts,” Additionally, he posted a cryptic captain on it by writing ” Can’t say much,” along with a smirk emoji.
Pant’s suspension for slow over-rate violation
Pant became the first captain of the season to be suspended for a slow over-rate offense in IPL 2024. The in-form wicketkeeper-batter was penalized after Delhi’s third slow over-rate offense of the season. Initially, Pant was fined Rs 12 lakh for the first offense and Rs 24 lakh for the second, with the third offense resulting in a suspension. Stand-in captain Axar later revealed that Pant was upset upon learning about the ban in the hotel room the night before their match in Bengaluru. Despite Delhi’s appeal against the ban, it was upheld after a hearing by the BCCI Ombudsman.
Also WATCH: ‘Gusse Me Tha’ – Axar Patel reveals Rishabh Pant’s reaction after one-match ban
Impact of Pant’s absence on DC
Pant’s absence was a significant setback for Delhi, as he had been performing exceptionally well with both bat and gloves, effectively leading the team. Delhi had put themselves in playoff contention by winning three of their last four matches and needed a victory on Sunday to keep their hopes alive. Unfortunately, they were defeated by Bengaluru by 47 runs in this crucial match.
Axar Patel’s valiant effort against RCB
Despite Pant’s absence, Delhi managed to restrict RCB to 187 runs. However, their batting lineup faltered, leaving them at 90/6 at one stage after losing key players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, David Warner and Tristan Stubbs. Stand-in captain Axar fought valiantly, scoring 57 runs off 39 balls, which included five fours and three sixes. Despite his efforts, the team could not secure a victory.
