Twitter reacts as Rishabh Pant's return to on-field action sparks Indian hopes

Star Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant took a major step in his recovery on Wednesday by returning to the cricket ground in a match situation for the first time since crashing his car while driving in December. A video emerged of him taking to the field with pads on and bat in hand during a local match in Bangalore, where he has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy.

The 25-year-old had endured a horrific car accident near Roorkee that had severely injured the ligaments in his knee and has since undergone a series of reconstructive surgeries under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team. The board had released an update a month ago stating that Pant had returned to the nets to resume batting and wicket-keeping practice and was following a strict regiment involving mobility and strength drills. However, the clearest indication of Pant's progress came through a recent fan-captured video which showed the batter playing some shots with trademark flamboyance, including a gorgeous straight drive and a heave over the fielders' heads while stepping down the pitch.

Lauded as India's best prospect behind the wickets since Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement and already having 129 international caps to his name across formats, Pant has been a crucial cog in the Indian setup for several years. Although his chances of making it to the home World Cup later in the year are practically none, Twitterati were quick to express hope with the wish that Pant at least returns in time for a crucial five-match Test series against England beginning in January.

He is back!

What a sight

Great news

WOW

Batting again

Recovery going great

Excellent

The best gift

Fingers crossed

After soo long