IPL 2025 mega-auction is in back of the mind: Lalit Yadav

Delhi all-rounder Lalit Yadav is leading Purani Delhi 6 team in the inaugural Delhi Premier League (DPL 2024) in the absence of wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant. As a captain, Yadav’s team faced back-to-back losses at the start of the tournament. However, on Wednesday night they secured their first victory under Yadav, defeating Hrithik Shokeen’s West Delhi Lions by seven wickets.

The match was a crucial one for Purani Delhi 6, as they restricted West Delhi to a total of 141 runs. The victory was anchored by a stellar performance from young opener Arpit Rana, who scored an unbeaten 59 to guide his team home. Yadav acknowledged the importance of this breakthrough moment. The 27-year-old is taking the captaincy responsibility with open arms, drawing inspiration from stalwarts like Pant and Ishant Sharma. 

“It’s a great feeling. The first win is always special. We have been waiting for this. It will give us confidence going forward, so will change the atmosphere in the dressing room. Finally, something on the points table,” Lalit told CricketNext.

“It’s enjoyable but also, challenging at times. It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m just looking at how I can keep delivering my best. The side is a mix of youth and experienced guys. Rishabh has shared his insights with us when was here, so did Ishant Bhaiya. It made the newcomers feel confident and it was pretty evident in today’s result. So, we need to keep trying those things going forward,” Lalit further added.

Also Read: Rishabh Pant on importance of Delhi Premier League

I’ve been working in my variations and I’m pretty confident about it: Lalit Yadav

With the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, Lalit Yadav is aware of what it requires to be picked in the auction. Delhi Capitals have shown faith in him since 2020, but the dynamics of retention could change in the upcoming auction. However, Yadav is focused on the present.

Also Read: Purani Dilli 6 bounce beat West Delhi Lions after back-to-back losses

“Honestly, it’s [Auction] there in the back of the mind. DPL is a great platform for me and all the youngsters playing in the tournament. It’s going on air and the franchises are watching you. But I’m telling it to myself that let’s focus on the DPL first. And if God is willing, I’ll have something in my hand as well,” he said.

The win against West Delhi Lions, where Yadav also made an impact by opening the bowling and taking an early wicket, is just the beginning. He is determined to maintain momentum by sticking to the basics and focusing on consistent performances.

If we look at the last two games, there were moments where performance wasn’t good. But overall, we did well. But today, we discussed it before the game how we can play consistently in entire 40 overs. We need to keep reminding ourselves that not to complicate things in the upcoming games and just follow the basics. I’ll try my best and it’s a good plan. I’ve been working in my variations and I’m pretty confident about it,” Lalit concluded.