Delhi Capitals’ (DC) woes in the Indian Premier League 2023 (IPL) continue, as right-arm pacer Kamlesh Nagarkoti has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a back injury. The 23-year-old has a history of back injuries and has not played a single game for Delhi this season. Nagarkoti’s absence is a big blow for the team, which is already struggling with its bowling performances.
Despite showing some promise in the past, Nagarkoti has not been at his best lately. He took only seven wickets across domestic tournaments in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022 and was unable to make it to Delhi’s playing eleven in their first five games this season. The decision to rule him out of the remainder of the tournament was taken keeping in mind his long-term fitness.
DC have a strong pace attack, with the likes of Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar and Chetan Sakariya featuring regularly. Overseas stars Anrich Nortje and Mustafizur Rahman also add depth to the team’s pace attack. However, Nagarkoti’s injury will put more pressure on the team’s remaining options. The trio of Khaleel, Mukesh and Nortje have only taken nine wickets combined so far, which reflects in Delhi’s poor position on the league table.
Delhi’s spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel have also not contributed significantly, with just six wickets between them so far. With Nagarkoti out, DC will have to rely on their existing options and try to turn their fortunes around. The team’s bench strength includes experienced players like Ishant Sharma and Lungi Ngidi, but they have not been given many opportunities this season.
To add some depth to the squad, DC have included domestic talents Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyam Garg in their training camp. The duo will be eager to make their mark and contribute to the team’s success. Despite the setback of Nagarkoti’s injury, DC will hope to turn their fortunes around and make a push for the playoffs.
