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Xtra Time Web Desk:  Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant expressed contentment with his return to competitive cricket despite his team's loss in the opening match of the 2024 Indian Premier League. The defeat came at the hands of Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium in Mullanpur, where Punjab secured a 4-wicket victory.

Pant's comeback to competitive cricket was significant as it marked his return after a 15-month absence due to a severe car crash in December 2022. The injury resulting from the accident had sidelined the wicket-keeping batter, causing him to miss both the IPL 2023 season and the 2023 ODI World Cup.

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Despite the disappointment of the loss, Pant's satisfaction with his return to the field indicates his determination and resilience in overcoming the challenges posed by his injury. His presence back in the game will likely serve as a morale boost for both himself and the Delhi Capitals team as they continue their campaign in the IPL 2024 season.

Speaking after the match, Pant said he was nervous ahead of his return to competitive cricket but was happy with his performance. Pant scored a brisk 13-ball 18 and also kept the wickets for the Delhi Capitals. He says, “personally I was pretty nervous but you have to go through this when you enter the field. This isn't the first time being nervous, but happy about that (his return). I think we had a par score but because we were one bowler short, because of an injury, can't do much about it.”

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Following their Punjab, Delhi will turn their attention towards Rajasthan Royals, with the two sides set to face each other at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Thursday, March 28.