Delhi Capitals' biggest problem is their lower-middle-order batting: Aakash Chopra

In an analysis of the Delhi Capitals' strategy ahead of the IPL 2024 auction, former India batter and renowned commentator Aakash Chopra highlighted the team's crucial needs for the upcoming edition of Indian Premiere League in 2024.

Chopra emphasised that despite being a top-heavy side, Delhi Capitals need more firepower in the lower-middle-order. According to him, DC, after releasing Phil Salt, who was performing decently, now find themselves with limited options in the middle order, especially after parting ways with Rovman Powell and Rilee Rossouw.

“They have released Phil Salt, who was playing decently. They have released Rilee Rossouw and Rovman Powell as well. So who will bat down the order? They were a top-heavy team till last year and they are still a top-heavy team. So this team's biggest problem is their lower-middle-order batting. They need lower-middle-order batters, so they will have to buy everyone who bats there,” said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Chopra further pointed out the necessity for bolstering the fast-bowling department, citing concerns over the availability of South African pacer Anrich Nortje. With Nortje's participation in doubt due to fitness issues, Chopra stressed that Delhi Capitals must secure talented fast bowlers in the auction.

“They have released two left-arm pacers. They said they neither need Mustafizur Rahman nor Chetan Sakariya. They have left Kamlesh Nagarkoti as well. So they will have to buy fast bowlers because there is always a question about Anrich Nortje's availability,” Chopra added.

With Delhi Capitals finishing in disappointing ninth place in the IPL 2023 points table, winning five matches, and losing nine, the onus is on the team management to address these issues during the upcoming auction in Dubai on Tuesday, December 19. 

Rishabh Pant set to lead Delhi Capitals in the upcoming season

Recent reports have confirmed that Rishabh Pant is preparing to make a comeback in cricket, with strong indications pointing towards his involvement in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The Delhi Capitals have officially declared Pant as their captain for the 2024 IPL season, marking his return to the field after being sidelined for almost a year.