Wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant has been named captain of the Delhi Capitals after batsman Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) season after injuring his left shoulder during India's ODI series with England.
Iyer sustained the injury while diving to stop a shot by England opener Jonny Bairstow and India's cricket board said he had partially dislocated his shoulder.
"Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out of the upcoming season following his injury," the Capitals said in a statement. "Rishabh Pant will lead the team in his absence.
Statement from Delhi Capitals 📝
— Delhi Capitals (Stay Home. Wear Double Masks😷) (@DelhiCapitals) March 30, 2021
Shreyas has taken DC to newer heights ever since he took on the role of captain, leading the team to its very first final last year. The franchise will always be there for any assistance and support he may require at any step.#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/0GoDKIQKqp
"Shreyas will be missed immensely, and we can't wait to see him in DC colours once again. We wish him a speedy recovery."
Pant has seen his stock rise in recent months with match-winning knocks in Test series wins in Australia and against England at home before sealing his spot in the limited-overs side.
The 23-year-old middle order batsman also smashed 77 and 78 in the last two ODIs against England as India won the series 2-1 in Pune.
The IPL begins on April 9, with the Capitals playing their first game the following day against the Chennai Super Kings in Mumbai.
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