IPL 2018: Probable playing XI for Delhi Daredevils
What's the story
Daredevils, under their new skipper Gautam Gambhir, will be raring to go all-out and deliver consistent performances in IPL 2018. Gambhir had an amazing stint with KKR. In IPL 2018, his task will be to get the playing XI right, especially with the assets Delhi have. Delhi open their campaign on Sunday against KXIP. Here we analyze the probable starting XI for Delhi Daredevils.
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Star-studded openers
Explosion and finesse atop for DD
DD are likely to have a left-right hand combination atop. Delhi would give Englishman Jason Roy the freedom to launch an attack from the go. He will be partnering skipper Gambhir, who would be the anchorman of the side. Roy and Gambhir present a strong option for DD in terms of starting the innings in a confident mode.
The middle-order
Iyer, Pant and Maxi need to come good
Shreyas Iyer will likely come in at number 3. He has decent IPL experience and has performed well in the last two seasons. Rishabh Pant comes in next. An explosive batsman, Pant needs to come to form after his poor show in Nidahas Trophy. He will also be the team's wicket-keeper. Maxwell holds the key to shift momentum according to what the situation demands.
Trio
DD have strong all-rounders
Chris Morris could follow Maxwell and take the mantle. The Proteas man is a powerful hitter and will look to give the team an added impetus with the ball. Gurkeerat Mann is a decent pick at number 7. He has played well in T20s and gives Gambhir the option of some spin. With bowling all-rounder Vijay Shankar next, DD have solid depth.
The last picks
Spin twins and Shami fill up the XI
Gambhir's inclination towards spin is well known and it means that there is every possibility that both Shahbaz Nadeem and Amit Mishra will be included in Playing XI. The duo have chipped in well over the seasons especially in the middle-overs. Gambhir will look to attack with Mishra. As Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of IPL, Shami is likely to get a nod.