Following a disappointing Indian Premier League (IPL) season last time round, where Delhi Capitals (DC) secured the ninth position in the points table, the team is set for a significant transformation in the upcoming IPL 2024 auction. The absence of Rishabh Pant in IPL 2023, coupled with the underwhelming performance of key players, resulted in a season marred by nine defeats.
Delhi Capitals look for complete revamp in IPL 2024 Auction
DC have already initiated the rebuilding process by parting ways with 11 players for the 2024 season while retaining 16 members. Armed with a purse of Rs 28.95 crore, they face the task of filling nine slots, including four for overseas talents, making them a team to watch on December 19 when 333 players go under the hammer in Dubai.
The top order, featuring David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, and the versatile Mitchell Marsh, remains the focal point of DC’s batting strength. The eagerly awaited return of Rishabh Pant, known for his batting prowess and captaincy skills, introduces another layer to this formidable lineup.
Despite experiencing a tumultuous IPL journey, the Capitals are resolute in their pursuit of the elusive trophy. As they prepare for a fresh start, let’s delve into the potential strategies that DC might employ as they aim for a successful reconstruction.
Delhi Capitals Squad at glance:
Retained players: Rishabh Pant, Pravin Dubey, David Warner, Vicky Ostwal, Prithvi Shaw, Anrich Nortje, Abishek Porel, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Lungi Ngidi, Lalit Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed, Mitchell Marsh, Ishant Sharma, Yash Dhull, Mukesh Kumar
Released players: Rilee Rossouw, Chetan Sakariya, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Phil Salt, Mustafizur Rahman, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ripal Patel, Sarfaraz Khan, Aman Khan, Priyam Garg
Purse left: Rs 28.95 crore
Slots left: 9 (4 overseas)
Delhi Capitals Auction Strategy:
DC’s strategy for the upcoming IPL would involve avoiding an all-out pursuit of a single player and instead selecting individuals who would fit specific roles well. They believe that winning the IPL would require constructing a team where every piece fits perfectly, like solving a puzzle. DC faces challenges, particularly in fast bowling and lower middle-order batting. Having released several fast bowlers, including Chetan Sakariya and Mustafizur Rahman, they would be looking to add more options to be prepared for situations like poor form or injuries. The surprising release of Chetan Sakariya indicates that DC might aim to acquire at least two more fast bowlers—one from India and one from another country.
In addition to these concerns, DC would need to find a new finisher since Phil Salt and Rovman Powell are no longer part of the team. Currently, most of their good batsmen are at the top of the lineup, so they would actively seek someone to strengthen the batting order in the middle. DC would also require a spinner and a backup opener. To sum it up, DC would aim to add three more middle-order batsmen, a wicketkeeper, and a bowler who can bat a bit to ensure a better performance than their forgettable last season.
Delhi Capitals to approach Rohit Sharma for trade?
Given Rishabh Pant’s current fitness situation, where he’s likely to play for Delhi Capitals as an impact player, the team is in need of an experienced captain to lead them. With the IPL trade window set to reopen right after the IPL 2024 Auction, there’s a possibility that DC, who previously made an attempt to acquire Rohit Sharma, might consider another approach.
Mumbai Indians, having recently replaced Rohit with Hardik Pandya as captain, declined the initial deal. However, DC may encounter tough competition from CSK, as strong rumors suggest a potential move if Rohit decides to seek a change in teams.
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