Veteran batsman Gautam Gambhir has been brought back into the Delhi Daredevils team for the Indian Premier League. After leading Kolkata Knight Riders to the glory twice in seven years, he is all likely to lead DD for this season.

“It is likely now that Gambhir will lead the team next season. We had a conversation with him. He has conveyed to us that he would like to make a comeback to his home Delhi and hopefully lead the team,” said DD head coach Ricky Ponting.

“And if you look at his leadership, we did not find any fault when captaining KKR. His last season of IPL also has also been very good. So we thought it would be good to have him as captain working with some of the young Indian players. So, we have gone for an experienced captain and I am sure he will do the job for us.”

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Gambhir made his IPL debut for Delhi way back in 2008 but the franchise released him after 2010. Kolkata was in search of a whole new squad and they found an inspirational leader in Gambhir. KKR won IPL twice in 2014 and 2016. However, the franchise was not in a mood to retain him for next seasons.

“When you look at it and see what they have done today is that they want to regenerate their franchise and the team. Look, Gautam has been there for a long time. He might himself felt it is time for a change for a fresh start. We are glad to have him as part of Delhi franchise,” added Ponting.

The next season of IPL will commence from April 7 and the final will be played on May 27 in Mumbai.