Delhi Capitals (DC) have made a significant move in the midst of the ongoing 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by announcing the replacement of their injured star player, Mitchell Marsh. The Aussie all-rounder’s absence due to a hamstring injury prompted the franchise to seek a substitute for the remainder of the tournament.
Mitchell Marsh’s departure
Marsh, who featured in four matches for DC, had to cut short his IPL stint after sustaining a hamstring injury. Departing for Perth on April 12 for consultation with Cricket Australia’s medical team, Marsh’s absence was confirmed by DC head coach Ricky Ponting at an event in Delhi. Ponting assured that Marsh’s recovery wouldn’t impede his potential leadership role for Australia in the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to commence on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies.
In the limited games he played, Marsh managed to score 61 runs in three innings, with a highest score of 23, while also bowling eight overs and clinching a solitary wicket, albeit at an elevated economy rate of 12.87. Notably, this is the second consecutive IPL season where DC has had to cope with Marsh’s mid-season exit, following a similarly abbreviated stint in 2023.
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The replacement
In response to Marsh’s departure, DC swiftly moved to secure the services of Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib as his replacement for the remainder of the IPL season. Naib, who has represented Afghanistan in 82 ODIs and 65 T20Is, will be making his IPL debut after being acquired for his base price of INR 50 lakh. The franchise hopes Naib’s experience and skill set will bolster their campaign as they aim for a strong finish in the tournament.
Current scenario
As DC navigates through the season, they currently occupy the sixth position on the points table, having secured four victories from nine matches. With several crucial encounters on the horizon against formidable opponents like Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Lucknow Super Giants, DC will be looking to capitalize on Naib’s inclusion and turn the tide in their favor.
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