As the IPL 2024 auction draws near, the Delhi Capitals (DC) are making strategic moves to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. In a surprising turn of events, reports suggest that DC has decided to part ways with Prithvi Shaw, Sarfaraz Khan, and Manish Pandey. The decision comes ahead of the IPL 2024 auction scheduled to take place in Dubai on December 19. In this article, we delve into the performances of the released players and explore Delhi Capitals’ strategy ahead of the IPL 2024 auction.
1. Prithvi Shaw
Despite being one of the most talented and fearless batters, Prithvi Shaw had a lackluster IPL 2023 season. In 8 matches, he managed to score only 106 runs at a disappointing average of 13.25. His overall IPL career statistics include 1694 runs in 71 matches, with an average of 23.9 and a strike rate of 145.8. While Shaw has displayed brilliance in domestic cricket, DC’s decision to release him indicates a focus on reshaping the team dynamics.
2. Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz Khan, known for his prolific domestic performances, has struggled to leave a mark in the IPL. The 26-year-old managed to score just 53 runs from four matches in IPL 2023, reflecting an average of 13.25. With 585 runs in 50 IPL matches at an average of 22.50 and a strike rate of 130.58, Sarfaraz has untapped potential. Delhi Capitals’ decision to release him might pave the way for Sarfaraz to find a new platform and showcase his talent.
3. Manish Pandey
A seasoned campaigner, Manish Pandey had a modest IPL 2023 season, scoring 160 runs in ten matches at an average of 17.78. The first Indian to score a hundred in the IPL, Pandey boasts a commendable IPL career with 3808 runs in 170 matches, averaging 29.07 and featuring 22 fifties. However, DC’s decision to release him suggests a strategic move to infuse fresh talent and bring a new dimension to the team.
Delhi Capitals’ Auction Strategy
According to reports, Delhi Capitals are not looking to trade the released players for talent from other teams. Instead, the franchise aims to capitalize on the upcoming auction to acquire new and impactful players. The decision to part ways with Shaw, Sarfaraz, and Pandey indicates a strategic shift, with Delhi Capitals keen on injecting fresh blood into their lineup.
Rishabh Pant’s Return Adds Strength
While bidding farewell to some players, Delhi Capitals will welcome back their captain and wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, in the upcoming season. Pant’s return adds strength to the team, and his availability for IPL 2024 has been confirmed by DC’s Director of Cricket, Sourav Ganguly. Pant, who survived a car crash in December 2022, is set to resume his role as a key player for Delhi Capitals.
Also Read: IPL 2024: 3 Players that CSK Might Consider as a Replacement for Ben Stokes
As Delhi Capitals undergoes a transformation ahead of the IPL 2024 season, the release of Prithvi Shaw, Sarfaraz Khan, and Manish Pandey signals a strategic shift in the team’s composition. The franchise, under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, aims to create a winning combination that can compete fiercely in the upcoming edition. The auction will unveil the new faces that DC adds to its squad, setting the stage for an exciting IPL journey in 2024.