10) Zaheer Khan, Age: 37
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The announcement that Zaheer Khan would be captaining the Delhi Daredevils this season came as a surprise but maybe it’s another clever move by Paddy Upton and team to get the best out of the experienced pacer. "It is a huge honour to captain Delhi Daredevils. To get this responsibility is a way for me to give back to the game.” said Zaheer.
IPL 2015 Quick Stats:
Matches – 7
Wickets – 7
Average – 22.28
Economy Rate – 6.45
Last year’s figures show that the left arm pacer still has plenty in the tank. It would be interesting to see if he drops himself if his performances aren’t up to the mark – A trend we have seen in the IPL in the fast. (Sangakkara, Cameron White, etc)
11) Mohammad Shami, Age: 26
Mohammed Shami has been on a long road back to fitness. He fought and fought and tried to make it in time for the World T20 but while he made it to the squad there was no place for him in the playing XI. At his best, Mohammed Shami is probably India’s best and most consistent pacer.
IPL 2014 Quick Stats:
Matches – 12
Wickets – 7
Average – 52.71
Economy Rate – 8.38
Having painfully missed out on the 2015 IPL, Shami will be looking at this season as a launchpad to get back to his best.
To summarize –
On paper, this team seems to have the perfect blend of youthful exuberance and experience. The only concern for the team management would be the batting, which does seem a little short on depth. It provides a terrific opportunity for the likes of Iyer, Samson & Nair to cash in. Be sure to expect Paddy Upton & Rahul Dravid to be fearless with their selection. Rishabh Pant is waiting on the wings and could have a huge role to play.
Delhi’s bowling line up could send shivers down the spine of any opponent. Not included in the predicted playing XI are Australian Nathan Coulter-Nile and South African Imran Tahir. The reason for their exclusion is the slightly weak batting line up. However, a surprise could be on the cards and we could very easily see Tahir come in for his compatrior De Kock and Sanju Samson might be seen wicketkeeping.
Exciting times for the Delhi Daredevils and their fans. This season promises to be special. We cannot ignore the influence that Brathwaite will have on this team. He will carry the calypso spirit into this Delhi team and very soon they could all be a “Champion”.
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