Can Delhi Capitals Replace Mitchell Starc?

New Delhi, May 17 (NationPress) As the Delhi Capitals (DC) prepare to face the top-ranked Gujarat Titans (GT) this Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, leg-spin all-rounder Vipraj Nigam acknowledged the significant challenge of replacing Mitchell Starc. However, he remains optimistic about the team's ability to leverage the available players.

Currently positioned fifth in the points table with 13 points, DC faces a tougher road to the playoffs, especially with Starc's absence in India. Mustafizur Rahman, the latest addition to the DC roster, is slated to arrive in New Delhi only on Sunday after participating in Bangladesh's first T20I against the UAE in Sharjah.

“Replacing a bowler of Mitchell Starc's caliber is incredibly challenging. Nonetheless, we’ve regrouped and made several adjustments to the team. Essentially, we aim to rekindle our early-season momentum. We do not want to be affected by the absence of key players; instead, we will focus on playing with those available,” stated Nigam during the pre-match press conference.

When asked about DC's mindset as they approach the remaining league matches, Nigam remarked, “It's nothing extraordinary. This is our home ground. We've had a few unfortunate losses, but now it’s a fresh beginning. After a brief hiatus, we are treating this as a new start. We are reflecting on how we initiated our campaign from the first match, and we will strive to maintain that momentum.”

DC faced evacuation from Dharamshala after their match against the Punjab Kings was abruptly canceled due to air strikes and drone activity in nearby areas. Nigam expressed gratitude to all authorities involved in safely returning the team to New Delhi and their respective homes.

“Everyone is aware of the circumstances and reasons behind this situation. Our team included several Indian Army personnel, and numerous individuals assisted us in getting home safely. Initially, the conditions were normal, but soon arrangements were made for our safe return,” he added.

“The Indian Government and the Indian Army did everything possible for us. While it’s best not to label it an experience, I am thankful to them for ensuring our safety,” he concluded.

Nigam has emerged as a valuable player for DC in IPL 2025, taking nine wickets and scoring 122 runs. He gained recognition for his impressive performance in the UPT20 league, where he claimed 20 wickets for the Lucknow Falcons, followed by a remarkable 27 runs off just eight balls to secure a victory for Uttar Pradesh against Andhra in the 2024/25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

He emphasized the significance of state T20 leagues and consistent performance in domestic cricket across all formats. “I believe this T20 league and state league are crucial. My experiences in the IPL mirror what I’ve learned in state leagues,” he remarked.

“While not identical, the processes are similar—T20 games and the surrounding pressure. State leagues are vital; my two seasons there have been incredibly beneficial and pivotal for my growth,” he noted.

“The domestic season is essential for Indian players, as it encompasses all formats, requiring preparation for each. Starting the season with T20 is a valuable experience,” he elaborated.

“However, in BCCI domestic competitions, players must transition between red and white ball formats. Challenges abound as adapting one's game for the red ball is necessary, but it’s enjoyable to navigate the entire season in this manner.”

Nigam also discussed his development within the team and the presence of fellow UP player Kuldeep Yadav in the DC setup. “It’s beneficial that we hail from the same state, and I’ve had positive experiences playing alongside him. This season’s IPL is a fresh experience for me, while he brings extensive experience,” he said.

“My time here has been exceptional, and such experiences are crucial for junior players. I feel there’s no hierarchy; everyone sees me as a teammate and a brother, which is wonderful,” he added.

Nigam concluded by clarifying that his batting ahead of Ashutosh Sharma in one match was strategic. “There’s no underlying reason. The batting order and team changes are situational. I only batted ahead of Ashutosh once due to the game’s circumstances. Ultimately, it depends on the situation,” he said.