Gilchrist cautions IPL franchises won't excuse poor performance for Fraser-McGurk
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Synopsis
Adam Gilchrist warns Jake Fraser-McGurk that without early success, he may find himself on the sidelines for the Delhi Capitals. The former cricketer emphasizes the unforgiving nature of IPL franchises regarding player performance during slumps.
Key Takeaways
- Adam Gilchrist warns that IPL franchises do not tolerate poor performance.
- Jake Fraser-McGurk has shown promise but must deliver quickly.
- Fraser-McGurk scored 330 runs in his first IPL season.
- His recent T20I form has declined significantly.
- A good start in the tournament can secure a player's place.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist cautioned that Jake Fraser-McGurk might find himself sidelined in the Delhi Capitals if he fails to deliver results promptly in the tournament, underscoring the harsh reality of how IPL franchises respond to players in a performance slump.
Fraser-McGurk was acquired by the Capitals as an injury substitute last year, where he managed to score 330 runs in nine innings, achieving four fifties during his inaugural IPL season. He concluded with a strike rate of 234.04, marking the second-highest in the tournament.
The franchise opted not to retain him; instead, they secured him at the IPL auction using the 'Right to Match' card for Rs 9 crores. However, the young player's T20I performance has declined in the last year; in his last 24 matches, he has accumulated only 382 runs at an average of 15.91 with a strike rate of 136.91.
“Delhi has shown great confidence in retaining him at the franchise. It’s crucial for him to start strong. My experience with the IPL indicates that franchises, owners, and coaches do not tolerate a lack of results for long,” Gilchrist expressed to Fox Cricket.
“A good start to the tournament grants you leeway to delve deeper into it and find your comfort zone, but Jake knows he needs to excel from the outset to ensure a successful tournament for himself and his team,” he added.
Gilchrist also foresaw that Fraser-McGurk could thrive on the flat surface and short boundaries of Arun Jaitley Stadium, provided he maintains composure and doesn’t push too hard too early.
“The pitch he batted on last year was exceptionally high-scoring. All opportunities will be available for him. It’s now his responsibility to keep a clear mind and seize those chances.”
“I believe he is as grounded as anyone can be, maintaining a balance to effectively execute his skills without getting ahead of himself. Like everyone else, I look forward to watching him play, and I’m hopeful he can deliver long innings,” he remarked.
The 18th edition of the IPL is set to begin on Saturday, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The Delhi Capitals will launch their campaign against the Lucknow Super Giants at the ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium in Vishakhapatnam on March 24.
