Former Delhi Daredevils (DD) skipper Gautam Gambhir has decided to play rest of the remaining games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 season for free. Gambhir’s this move came after he stepped down from Delhi’s leadership role owing to team’s poor performance in IPL 2018.
Delhi, who are standing at the bottom of the points table, will be led by batsman Shreyas Iyer with immediate effect. Gambhir, who was bought by Delhi franchise at INR 2.8 crore, has amassed just 85 runs in the five matches with an average of 17.
We’re live in a Press conference with @inspiranti @GautamGambhir #RickyPonting https://t.co/EJ3JoZ68XC
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 25, 2018
As quoted in PTI, one of their reliable sources said, “Gautam has decided that he won’t take any salary from the franchise for the season. He will play remaining part of IPL for the Delhi Daredevils for free. Gautam is someone who puts pride above everything else. He has been a proud performer. He doesn’t want to take any money and it’s a very personal call. In fact, he wanted to quit just after the KXIP game.”
While he is still available for the season as a player, Gautam will take a call on his future only after the IPL gets over.
True, that I’ve stepped down from DD captaincy. Just to clarify it was my call, nothing from the management or coaching staff. I may not be leading from the front but I will be the last man standing for @DelhiDaredevils. No individual bigger than d team. Very much a #DilDIlli
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) April 25, 2018
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During the press conference in New Delhi, Gautam said, “I don’t know, it’s too early for me to decide on that. Let me sit down and decide. I have to think where my game goes and I go as an individual.”
Dear All continuing where, I left yesterday this decision by @GautamGambhir to step down as #Captain for betterment of the team is legendary. Only the brave can take call like this! Deserves full respect for this decision a first in #India cricket. #TeambeforeIndividual #Respect
— Hemant Dua हेमंत दुआ (@inspiranti) April 25, 2018
Gambhir returned to Delhi after spending seven years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He led KKR to lift the trophy in 2012 and 2014 season.
Delhi will next face KKR on April 27 at the Ferozshah Kotla Stadium. Delhi needs to win every match now if they want to secure their berth in qualifiers.
