What’s the story?
Delhi Daredevils have received a major boost ahead of the 2017 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Both Mohammed Shami and Amit Mishra have regained full fitness and will be available for the entire duration of the tournament.
Even as their batting department has been hit by injuries to South African stars Quinton de Kock and JP Duminy, the franchise’s bowling stocks are ready to make a lasting impression. Skipper Zaheer Khan confirmed the full availability of Shami while CEO Hemant Dua asserted that leg-spinner Mishra is also fit and raring to go. It’s pertinent to note that the duo were troubled by injuries during the recently completed Indian home season.
When asked if Rishabh Pant will keep wickets and open for Delhi in the absence of de Kock, the seasoned Zaheer preferred not to disclose the team’s strategies. He, however, urged the likes of Pant, Sanju Samson and Karun Nair to rise to the occasion.
The Background
While Ravichandran Ashwin, Murali Vijay and KL Rahul have been ruled out due to injuries, the likes of Virat Kohli, Umesh Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja are set to miss the first few weeks of the IPL. As a result, there is growing uncertainty regarding the availability of the other leading Indian players.
The heart of the matter
After playing the first six Tests of India’s home season, Shami suffered a hamstring injury and had to miss the subsequent phase. The fast bowler returned to action in the Vijay Hazare Trophy knockouts with a couple of impressive spells. Though he was included in the Indian squad for the Dharamsala Test, the team management opted not to risk him.
Extra Cover: Mohammed Shami targets IPL to get back into rhythm
On the other hand, Mishra turned out only for a couple of Tests in the season. However, the leg-spinner featured prominently in the limited-overs formats. He had to undergo a knee injury and found himself replaced by Kuldeep Yadav in the squad for the one-off match against Bangladesh.
What’s next?
Delhi Daredevils will be the last side to begin their campaign in the 2017 IPL. Their first match will be against Royal Challengers Bangalore on the 8th of April at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Author’s Take
Having finished sixth in last year’s edition, the Daredevils will be buoyed by the availability of both Shami and Mishra as they seek to start the new season on a positive note. The presence of two proven performers in the bowling attack means that the pressure on their slightly inexperienced batting lineup will be considerably reduced.
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