The Delhi Capitals (DC), under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, are poised for a spirited campaign in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). They aim to clinch their maiden IPL title with a well-rounded squad and strategic acquisitions. Let’s investigate the probable playing XI for DC in IPL 2024 and analyze their potential lineup.

Key Matches and Schedule

DC commences their IPL 2024 journey against Punjab Kings on March 23, followed by crucial encounters against Rajasthan Royals, CSK, KKR, and Mumbai Indians. These initial matches will set the tone for their campaign and indicate their form and momentum early.

See Also: Nehra’s special training to new Gujarat Titans captain in IPL 2024

Return of Rishabh Pant

The return of Rishabh Pant to the squad after missing the previous season due to injury injects vitality and leadership into the team. As the appointed captain, Pant’s form with the bat and astute captaincy will be instrumental in DC’s success.

Player Additions and Changes

Recent squad changes include the unfortunate withdrawal of Lungi Ngidi; in place of DC, Australian stalwart all-rounder Jake Fraser-McGurk was added. Additionally, the absence of Harry Brook for personal reasons reshapes the team dynamics, necessitating adjustments in the lineup.

Opening Batting Lineup Analysis

The top order boasts explosive talents like Prithvi Shaw and David Warner, who are capable of providing quick starts and laying a solid foundation for the innings. Shaw’s aggressive approach and Warner’s experience are pivotal for DC’s batting prowess.

All-Rounders and Middle-Order

Mitchell Marsh adds depth to the middle order, offering stability and firepower with both bat and ball. He will probably bat at number 3 and will do the same work he has been doing with his national cricket team. Rishabh Pant’s return as captain further strengthens the middle order, providing strength and leadership. Lalit Yadav’s impactful all-round abilities, Axar Patel’s reliability, and the potential of impact substitute Mukesh Kumar bolster DC’s lineup, offering both batting depth and bowling options.

Spin Bowling Options

Kuldeep Yadav emerges as the primary spin bowling weapon for DC, and he is known for his wicket-taking ability and variations. His performance in the IPL will be crucial, especially after an impressive Test series against England.

Pace Bowling Attack

With Ishant Sharma leading the pace attack and Anrich Nortje’s return, DC boasts a formidable bowling lineup. Nortje’s ability to generate pace and take wickets adds potency to the bowling unit. Khaleel Ahmed’s early breakthroughs complete DC’s bowling arsenal, promising a formidable challenge for opponents.

Delhi Capitals Probable Playing XI:

1. Prithvi Shaw
2. David Warner
3. Mitchell Marsh
4. Rishabh Pant (Captain/Wicket-Keeper)
5. Jake Fraser-McGurk/ Tristan Stubbs
6. Lalit Yadav
7. Axar Patel
8. Kuldeep Yadav
9. Ishant Sharma
10. Anrich Nortje
11. Khaleel Ahmed

Impact Player Substitute: Mukesh Kumar. 

Delhi added new players in the IPL 2024 auction:- Harry Brook (Rs. 4 crore), Tristan Stubbs (Rs. 50 lakhs), Ricky Bhui (Rs. 20 lakhs), Kumar Kushagra (Rs. 7.20 crore), Rasikh Dar (Rs. 20 lakhs), Jhye Richardson (Rs. 5 crores), Sumit Kumar (Rs. 1 crore), Shai Hope (Rs. 75 lakhs), Swastik Chhikara (Rs. 20 lakhs).

Delhi Capitals IPL 2024 Full Squad: Rishabh Pant (c), Pravin Dubey, David Warner, Vicky Ostwal, Prithvi Shaw, Anrich Nortje, Abishek Porel, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Fraser-McGurk, Lalit Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed, Mitchell Marsh, Ishant Sharma, Yash Dhull, Mukesh Kumar, Tristan Stubbs, Ricky Bhui, Kumar Kushagra, Rasikh Dar, Jhye Richardson, Sumit Kumar, Shai Hope, Swastik Chhikara.