Delhi Capitals' fast bowling coach James Hopes backs his team to come good in upcoming fixtures

James Hopes, Delhi Capitals (DC) bowling coach, is hoping for a string of victories in their upcoming matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Delhi will lock horns with last season's runners-up Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the 11th match of the IPL 2023 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on April 8, Saturday. Notably, they haven’t registered a single win in the two games they have played so far.

Ahead of DC’s next clash, Hopes admitted that his side has not batted, bowled, or fielded well in their previous two games. He said that Delhi are now looking to get into winning ways from the next game onwards. 

According to the coach, Delhi Capitals have struggled against quick bowling in their first two games. He stated that their squad includes a group of young players and that they are facing bowling speeds in excess of 140 for the first time. He added that they are learning the hard way through the tournament.

"We have a few young players, who are facing bowling speeds of high 140s or low 150s for the first time. They are learning it the hard way through the competition. Hopefully, they'll get more comfortable with the high pace and start turning their performances around,” the 44-year-old told Delhi Capitals.

Abishek Porel is a special talent: Hopes

The coach then heaped praise on keeper-batter Abishek Porel, who made his IPL debut in their last game against the reigning champions Gujarat Titans (GT). Porel was exceptional with the gloves behind the wicket, according to the 44-year-old. He also stated that he is brilliant at keeping up with the pace of the game with the bat. 

"Abishek Porel is a special talent. He got our innings going with the bat against Gujarat Titans and he did well with the gloves behind the wicket. He's a very good wicketkeeper and he'll catch up with the speed of the game with the bat as well,” Hopes further added.