The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Daredevils’ (DD) chances of qualifying for the playoffs are negligible after their disappointing performances throughout the season. DD roped in former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir but that did not work out for them. As a result, Gambhir decided to give away his captaincy to young 23-year-old Shreyas Iyer. Things looked bright at the start of Iyer’s captaincy but DD lost matches at crucial stages and eventually got knocked out of the playoffs’ qualifying race.
However, the only positive thing for DD is that they have the got the chance to test their bench strength and prepare a base for the next season. Nepal’s leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane and Proteas pace Junior Dala can be expected to make their debuts against a needy Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) side.
After getting beaten by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on their home turf, team’s bowling coach James Hopes said in the post-match press conference, “We now need to see the big picture. What does our roster look like for next year, those things will start to be spoken about now? These next three games are a good opportunity to possibly see some of these guys, especially Junior (Dala) and Sandeep (Lamichhane), in action.”
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If this happens, 17-year-old Lamichhane will become the first cricketer from Nepal to feature in an IPL game and Dala might replace Kiwi pacer, Trent Boult. Dala was impressive against India in the three-T20I series at home earlier this year.
Gambhir fans might get to see him in action as well especially when the overseas openers Colin Munro and Jason Roy have not lived up to their name this season. The former DD skipper was seen doing some extra rounds on the field ahead of the clash against RCB. DD’s one of the most expensive picks Glenn Maxwell has had a disappointing season so far with barely any contributions. There might be a few changes in store as DD take on RCB in the latter’s must-win game.
