Rishabh Pant Declines Delhi Captaincy, Supports Ayush Badoni’s Leadership

Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has opted out of leading the Delhi team in the upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra in Rajkot, starting January 23. This will mark Pant’s first Ranji game since 2018. Despite his credentials as an international player and former IPL franchise skipper, Pant suggested that Ayush Badoni should continue as captain to maintain the team's balance. Delhi currently stands in joint second position in the Elite Group D table with 19 points.

Sources close to the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) revealed that Pant conveyed his decision to the Gursharan Singh-led selection committee, stating that disrupting the existing team dynamic by stepping in as captain would not be ideal. He also expressed confidence in Badoni and coach Sarandeep Singh to uphold their vision for the team.

Interestingly, this decision creates a role reversal ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Pant is expected to lead the Lucknow Super Giants, a team that includes Badoni as a retained junior player. The franchise has yet to officially confirm its captain for the season.

Meanwhile, the availability of Virat Kohli for the Ranji match remains uncertain due to fitness concerns. DDCA president Rohan Jaitley is expected to engage with the senior batsman, given the BCCI’s recent directive mandating international players to participate in domestic cricket when not on national duty or recovering from injury.

Additionally, there is no confirmation regarding the participation of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in the Ranji Trophy. Both are anticipated to play in the next round of matches.