Young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was named Delhi Capitals captain for the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday. The Delhi-based franchised made the announcement in a Twitter post. He will be taking regular-captain Shreyas Iyer’s place as the latter has been ruled out of the cash-rich league due to an injury that he sustained in the recently-concluded ODI series against England.

Commenting on his new role, Pant said: “Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I’ve always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role.”

“With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can’t wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant added.

Talking about the change in captaincy, head coach Ricky Ponting said: “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility.

“The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started,” the former Australian captain said.

The Indian Premier League is due to start on April 9. Delhi Capitals will begin their campaign against MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings.