IPL 2018: Sandeep Lamichhane, Junior Dala Set To Make Their Debuts For Delhi Daredevils

IPL 2018, DD vs RCB, Match 45: We might witness a few major changes in Delhi Daredevils' starting XI as they take on RCB at home

By: Arun Rawal |
May 12, 2018 3:48 pm

Delhi Daredevils’ (DD) hope of reaching the playoffs in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 turned to dust after their disappointing performances throughout the season. DD roped in former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Gautam Gambhir but that did not work out for them. As a result, Gambhir stepped down from the captaincy and made way for a 23-year-old Shreyas Iyer. Things looked bright at the start but DD lost crucial matches and eventually got knocked out of the playoffs race.

However, all is not lost for DD as they will look to test their bench strength and prepare a base for the next season. Nepal’s leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane and Proteas fast bowler Junior Dala are set to make their debuts against a needy Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) side.

After getting beaten by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on their home turf, team’s bowling coach James Hopes said in the post-match press conference,

“We now need to see the big picture. What does our roster look like for next year, those things will start to be spoken about now? These next three games are a good opportunity to possibly see some of these guys, especially Junior (Dala) and Sandeep (Lamichhane), in action.”

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If this happens, 17-year-old Lamichhane will become the first cricketer from Nepal to play in IPL. Dala might replace Kiwi pacer Trent Boult. Dala was impressive against India in the three-T20I series at home earlier this year.

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Gambhir fans might get to see him in action as well. The former DD skipper was seen sweating it out in the nets ahead of the clash against RCB. Overseas openers Colin Munro and Jason Roy have not lived up to their name this season. DD’s one of the most expensive picks Glenn Maxwell has had a disappointing season so far with barely any contributions. There might be a few changes in store as DD take on RCB in the latter’s must-win clash.