Daredevils get Shreyas Iyer boost ahead of Kings XI clash

Shreyas Iyer, the 22-yeard old batsman, who was down with chicken pox has recovered and joined the squad ahead of the home tie against Kings XI Punjab on Saturday. The Mumbai-lad had an outstanding Ranji Trophy season which culminated in a national Test call-up.

Delhi Daredevils recently crushed Rising Pune Supergiant by 97 runs but their top order, with the exception of Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant, has struggled to get going. Shreyas Iyer will bring solidity as well as the aggressiveness to the top of the order.

Iyer had a stunning season in 2015 for Delhi Daredevils where he scored 439 runs in 14 games which included four half-centuries. In the Ranji Trophy this season, Iyer managed to get 725 runs in 10 games including two centuries and as many fifties.

Senior leg-spinner Amit Mishra confirmed his comeback but maintained that he will get a look-in only if he suits the team’s playing combination.

“He’s joined the team, he’s been practicing with us. I think he’s available for selection. But it will depend on combinations if we can slot him in the playing XI or not. But he’s available for selection,” Mishra said.

Delhi Daredevils struggled last season but have started this season well. After a defeat in their first game against RCB, they responded well in the next game against RPS.

Aditya Tare hasn’t quite got going in the two games so far and might pave the way for Shreyas Iyer. Daredevils rely on young batting talents of Pant, Samson, Nair and Iyer will be another addition to the list.

Daredevils are set to take on last year’s bottom-ranked Kings XI Punjab, who has played well this season. This will be the first game at Feroz Shah Kotla this season and Daredevils would want to make the most of the home advantage.