Delhi Capitals captain and wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant has received a one-match ban, posing a new challenge for the team. His absence ahead of a crucial playoff match will significantly impact the team. The upcoming match against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Chinna-swamy will see Akshar Patel stepping in as the captain in Pant's place. Pant's ban, resulting from a slow over rate in the previous game against Rajasthan Royals, marks the first instance of a captain being sanctioned for this reason in the current IPL season.
With Akshar Patel taking over the captaincy role, the team looks to him to lead in Pant's stead. Coach Ricky Ponting confirmed in a press conference that Akshar Patel will lead the team in the upcoming match, highlighting his experience in the IPL and international cricket. Pant faced a fine of Rs.30 lakh for breaching the code of conduct during Delhi Capitals' victory over Rajasthan Royals on 7th May. Pant's performance in the ongoing IPL 2024 season includes 413 runs across 12 matches and dismissing 14 batsmen while keeping wicket. Additionally, he was named Man of the Match for his exceptional display in the match against Gujarat.
