Lalit Yadav distracted by IPL 2025 Auction buzz, struggles to focus on DPL

Delhi all-rounder Lalit Yadav said that he remains focused on the inaugural Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2024 with the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction at the back of his mind. Lalit Yadav stated that the Delhi Premier League provides a platform for youngsters to perform well before the IPL mega auction.

Lalit Yadav is leading the Purani Delhi 6 in the ongoing DPL in the absence of Rishabh Pant. The Purani Delhi 6 suffered back-to-back losses in the first two matches. However, they managed to secure their first win of the season with a 7-wicket victory over Hrithik Shokeen's West Delhi Lions on Wednesday.

The Purani Delhi 6 delivered a solid bowling performance in the seventh match of the DPL 2024. They restricted the West Delhi team to 141 runs in the allotted 20 overs. In response, the Lalit Yadav-led team chased down the target with 17 balls to spare. Opener Arpit Rana scored an unbeaten 56 off 43 balls.

It's Great Feeling - Lalit Yadav

Speaking with the media after securing their first win, Lalit said that the victory boosted their confidence and the team’s morale. Yadav acknowledged the valuable insights shared by Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma. He emphasized that they need to maintain this positive momentum in future matches.

“It’s a great feeling. First win is always special. We have been waiting for this. It will give us confidence going forward, so will change the atmosphere in the dressing room. Finally, something on the points table,” Lalit told CricketNext.

“It’s enjoyable but also, challenging at times. It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m just looking at how I can keep delivering my best.

"The side is a mix of youth and experienced guys. Rishabh has shared his insights with us when was here, so did Ishant Bhaiya. It made the newcomers feel confident and it was pretty evident in today’s result. So, we need to keep trying those things going forward,” he further added.

In The Back Of The Mind - Lalit Yadav

Lalit said that he is aware of the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction but is focused on his current performance in the Delhi Premier League. He mentioned that the tournament provides a valuable platform for young players and hoped his performance would not go unnoticed.

“Honestly, it’s [Auction] there in the back of the mind. DPL is a great platform for me and all the youngsters playing in the tournament.

"It’s going on air and the franchises are watching you. But I’m telling it to myself that let’s focus on the DPL first. And if God is willing, I’ll have something in my hand as well,” Lalit said.

The Delhi Capitals have consistently shown faith in Lalit since 2020. He was purchased by the Delhi team in the 2020 Indian Premier League auction. The all-rounder was bought again for the 2022 tournament. However, the dynamics of player retention could change in the upcoming mega auction.

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