IPL 2019: Delhi Capitals is Yielding Results by Investing in Youth - AB de Villiers

Delhi Capitals have gone for a number young cricketers in the auctions last year which has yielded them results in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). They are one step away from reaching the finals of the cash-rich league for the first time since its debut. Also, this is their first time in the top four since 2012. Royal Challengers Bangalore cricketer AB de Villiers feels the Capitals are reaping the results by investing in young players.

Meanwhile, the franchise also changed their name – from Delhi Daredevil to Delhi Capitals ahead of the season. They also made a handful of changes in the support staffs bringing in former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and Mohammad Kaif on board. They defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in an exciting clash to reach the Qualifier 2 against Chennai Super Kings which is only one game away from the pinnacle clash.

The young side has played consistent cricket led Shreyas Iyer from the front. Although it is the players who take away all the accolades, it is hardwork of Ricky Ponting and Sourav Ganguly which have worked wonders for the team. Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Delhi Capitals’ approach this season, and now former Proteas cricketer AB de Villiers has said that Delhi’s investment in young cricketers have paid off this season. Most of the players are below 26 years which includes the like of Rishabh Pant, Kagiso Rabada, and Prithvi Shaw who have been the standouts for Delhi side.

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“DC have been gaining momentum. No fewer than 14 of their 24-man squad are under 26 years old but greatly guided by Ricky Ponting and Sourav Ganguly. Their investment in reward has been rewarded,” de Villiers wrote in TOI.

Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, will face a tough task on their way to progress to the finals. They will take on Chennai Super Kings against whom they have lost both the games in the league stage. AB de Villiers feels it will be an iconic clash between the exuberance of the youth and the experience.

“It’s a classic clash between youth and experience, between the fiery youngsters of DC and the ice-cold veterans of CSK,” de Villiers concluded.