Delhi Capitals are set to inject a dose of nostalgia into their squad by targeting Shreyas Iyer, their former star player, for a potential captaincy role in the upcoming IPL season. Following his departure after IPL 2021, the franchise now aims to welcome him back with the promise of leadership.
IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Here Is Why Delhi Capitals Forced Shreyas Iyer To Leave KKR:
The Search for a New Captain
The decision to explore new leadership comes after the franchise did not retain Rishabh Pant, leaving the captaincy position vacant. Although Axar Patel has emerged as a potential candidate, the final call hinges on the outcomes of the auction. Delhi Capitals are reportedly eager to finalize their strategy post-auction, with a strong inclination towards Iyer.
Iyer’s Market Value and Bidding War
According to a PTI report, confirmed by an IPL official, Delhi Capitals’ co-owners, GMR group, have their sights set on Iyer for the IPL 2025 season. This move might not go unopposed, as other teams could engage in a bidding war not for Iyer’s batting prowess, but to inflate the costs for the Capitals. “There won’t be too many teams that would want Iyer the T20 batter but just to ensure DC spends a bomb on a player, they might engage in a bidding war for Iyer,” an IPL franchise official revealed.
Strategic Importance of Iyer’s Leadership
Bringing back Iyer is not just about filling a void in the batting lineup; it’s also about instilling a sense of continuity and leadership. Iyer previously led the Capitals with commendable skill, making him a natural fit for the role again. His experience and familiarity with the franchise could be pivotal in steering the team towards success.
Iyer’s Departure from Kolkata Knight Riders
Surprisingly, Kolkata Knight Riders decided against retaining Iyer despite his instrumental role in their title win last season. KKR CEO Venky Mysore disclosed that both Iyer and the team had differing views on his retention, leading to a mutual parting. Iyer, seeking to test his market value, chose to enter the auction, a decision that has now positioned him as a prime target for the Capitals.
The return of Shreyas Iyer could mark the beginning of a new era for Delhi Capitals, blending past success with future aspirations. As the IPL auction approaches, all eyes will be on how this saga unfolds, potentially setting the stage for a compelling season ahead. With Iyer at the helm, Delhi Capitals might just find the dynamism needed to reclaim their former glory.