Delhi Capitals, formerly known as the Delhi Daredevils, last qualified for the playoffs in 2012. In last season, the team roped Gautam Gambhir as team’s skipper but replaced him after they lost five out of the first six matches. This year, Delhi Capitals eyeing a new start as they went into the auction to make up for their shortcomings by buying mostly all-rounders who can support the core players.
Strengths
Delhi Capitals have one the most destructive top orders that includes significant players like Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, and Rishabh Pant. With such a solid top-order batting line, Delhi Capitals can easily try out different playing combinations that can support the core group. Apart from this, the team does not lack on the experience front as T20 stars like Colin Ingram, Shikhar Dhawan, and Amit Mishra are there to guide the young players on the field while the support staff that includes Sourav Ganguly and Ricky Pointing can motivate the players off the field.
Fast bowlers like Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada and Trent Boult leading the bowling front for Delhi Capitals, there is a fairly good chance for the team to make it to finals this year.
Weakness
Spin plays an essential role in Feroz Shah Kotla ground where Delhi Capitals are expected to play half of their matches. With just Amit Mishra and Sandeep Lamichhane, the shortage in the spin department can cause major damage to the team. Delhi Capitals have signed many young players like Avesh Khan, Nathu Singh and Bandaru Ayyapa and an experienced player- Ishant Sharma to take care of the fast bowling unit.
Sharma is an experienced Indian fast bowler, but his T20 bowling is still a question mark. So, all in all, lack of experience in the fast bowling department can hinder their journey.
Playing XI Prediction
Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer (C), Rishabh Pant (WK), Colin Ingram, Axar Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Amit Mishra, Rahul Tewatia, Sandeep Lamichhane.
