Abishek Porel reflects on Rishabh Pant's absence from Delhi Capitals
What's the story
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season draws near, young wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel has opened up about Rishabh Pant's absence from the Delhi Capitals squad. Speaking to Sports Today, Porel compared Pant's leadership style to that of Axar Patel, who was made captain only two weeks ahead of the tournament. He added that both players have a similar fun-loving approach to captaincy.
Player dynamics
Porel's admiration for Pant and Patel
Porel also spoke highly of Pant, saying, "I remember everything that Rishabh Pant has taught me. He is a match-winner. We will miss him." The young player also called Patel "dangerous for the opposition." He reminisced about the last two years he spent with Patel and compared the captaincy styles of both players.
New commitments
Pant to play for LSG
Notably, Pant will play for Lucknow Super Giants in the upcoming IPL 2025. The team bought him for a massive ₹27 crore in the mega-auction, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. DC used the Right To Match card for Pant at ₹23.5 crore. However, LSG upped the bid to ₹27 crore and sealed the deal. Pant was with DC since his IPL debut in 2016.
Season goals
Porel's role in IPL 2025 and team aspirations
Porel proved to be a valuable asset to the DC lineup last season, scoring 327 runs at an impressive strike rate of 159.51. He has also expressed his willingness to take on any role for the team, be it opening the innings or batting at No.3. His primary goal is clear: "Delhi Capitals want to win the trophy... We want to play the final and win."