Delhi Capitals’ players have finally started their training at the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai on Wednesday (March 31) after completing their mandatory quarantine ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 starting April 9.
After having their first training session, Ajinkya Rahane said he is looking to get into the groove ahead of the DC’s first game against Chennai Super Kings (CSA) in Mumbai on April 10.
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Rahane said in an official statement: “I batted for the first time in 20 days. We came out after being in quarantine for seven days, so I was just looking to get into the groove and get into a good rhythm. And as we get closer to the tournament, it will be all about maintaining that good rhythm and momentum.”
While Amit Mishra said that all the DC stars looked terrific during the team's first practice session while revealing he is working on improving his batting apart from honing his bowling prowess.
The 38-year-old said, “All the boys are looking good here on the field. They are all ready to put in the hard yards and it's nice to see the youngsters practicing hard as well. I am working on my batting.”
The leg-spinner continued, “The coaches have also told me to keep practicing my batting as there might be situations in matches when I will have to string partnerships of 25-30 runs. We need to be ready for everything. Basically, if I am batting with a recognized batsman then I should focus on taking singles and giving the strike to my partner.”
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant was named Delhi Capitals captain for the upcoming IPL 2021 after Shreyas Iyer ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury and the youngster is looking forward to the new role.
Pant said in a statement said, “Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harbored. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled.
I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals.”
(With ANI Inputs)
