Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Team India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin showcased a heart-warming gesture towards Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant during their reunion in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. In a touching moment, Ashwin was spotted cheering up Pant from behind the stumps as the DC captain practised batting in the nets ahead of the clash between the two teams.
Rishabh Pant marked his much-awaited comeback to competitive cricket in DC's season opener against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Despite his team enduring a four-wicket loss, the left-hander showcased decent form with the bat, scoring 18 runs off 13 deliveries before getting dismissed.
Indian fans are familiar with the iconic 'Come on Ash, Come on Ash' chants by Rishabh Pant from behind the stumps directed towards Ashwin as he prepares to bowl. However, in a delightful role reversal, Ashwin took on the role of motivating the returning Pant with encouraging 'Come on Rishabh' cheers.
In a video posted by the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin can be heard shouting from behind, "Come on Rishabh, come on Rishabh. Keep playing yaar," as he encourages Pant.
Watch The Viral Video Here
DC's Misery In Pant's Absence
Back in IPL 2023, in the absence of their regular skipper Rishabh Pant, DC endured five consecutive losses at the start of their campaign. Despite a stronger performance in the latter half of the tournament, the team finished second to bottom with just five wins in 14 matches.
Ashwin vs Pant In IPL 2024
In match 9 of IPL 2024, Ashwin-starrer Rajasthan Royals will face off against the Pant-led Delhi Capitals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on March 28 (Thursday). While RR secured victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their tournament opener, DC faced defeat against PBKS in their inaugural match of the season. Pant and his team will aim to bounce back and return to winning form, while the hosts will seek to maintain their winning streak at home.