Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa criticized the management of the Delhi Capitals team for their lack of support towards the Indian players in their squad. Uthappa voiced his concerns during the IPL 2024 opener between DC and the Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. Expressing his disappointment, Uthappa questioned the franchise’s reluctance to promote Indian talent, highlighting their tendency to favour overseas players in critical positions.
“Why don’t you back the Indian players you have picked? I don’t understand why a franchise like DC doesn’t back Indian players. That’s my problem with DC, they never try out their Indian lads,” Uthappa said on Jio Cinema.
In particular, Uthappa pointed out the absence of backing for players like Abishek Porlel and Prithvi Shaw, who were either dropped or overlooked in the starting lineup. He emphasized the significance of giving opportunities to promising talents like Porlel, who showcased his potential with dynamic innings lower down the order.
Uthappa suggested that players like Porlel should be considered for top-order roles to fully exploit their abilities and contribute effectively to the team’s success.
“Looking at Porel’s technique, I think he can be a huge success at the top order. But how will you know if you don’t try him out? Why not bat him at No.3 or 4? He came in as an Impact Player at No.9 and almost saved the franchise,” Uthappa said.
The young left-hander scored 32 off 10 balls after stepping in at No.9 with only 17 balls remaining in the innings. It was his knock that propelled DC to 174/9. Uthappa believes DC should seek to bat someone like Porel in the top four.
Additionally, Uthappa expressed dissatisfaction with the batting position assigned to Axar Patel, a consistent performer for DC in the previous season. He questioned the logic behind demoting a player in good form to a lower batting position, urging the management to utilize the strengths of their key Indian players more effectively.
“They batted their last year’s second-highest scorer at No.7. When will you use the form of your in-form Indian players?” he asked.
Delhi Capitals lose IPL 2024 opener against Punjab Kings
Despite Uthappa’s concerns, Punjab Kings, led by an impressive knock from Sam Curran and valuable contributions from Liam Livingstone and Prabhsimran, secured victory in a closely contested match against Delhi Capitals. The match witnessed moments of brilliance from both sides, with Punjab Kings displaying resilience in their chase despite facing some early setbacks.
Notably, Shikhar Dhawan’s aggressive start was cut short by Ishant Sharma’s precise bowling, while Prabhsimran’s attacking approach provided momentum to Punjab’s innings. However, timely breakthroughs from DC’s bowlers, including Kuldeep Yadav, kept the contest finely balanced, ultimately leading to a thrilling finish with Punjab emerging victorious.
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