In the Delhi Capitals’ recent 14-run defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders, eyebrows were raised over the utilisation of their leading wrist-spinner, Kuldeep Yadav. Despite his reputation, Kuldeep was held back until the 11th over, completing only three wicketless overs and conceding 27 runs. This decision came under scrutiny as KKR laid a solid foundation with 79 for 1 during the powerplay and eventually set a challenging target of 204 for 9.
Daren Ganga, former West Indies captain, shared his thoughts on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out, suggesting that Kuldeep should be allowed to bowl his full quota regardless of his form on a particular day. “Kuldeep not finishing his spell to me was a bit of a missed opportunity,” stated Ganga. He went on to explain how introducing a wrist-spinner like Kuldeep early, particularly in the powerplay, could have stifled KKR’s aggressive approach.
The discussion delved into the cautious nature teams often display towards employing wrist-spin in the powerplay. “If you’re trying to control a phase by taking wickets,” Ganga argues, “it’s an option worth considering, especially when struggling to penetrate the opposition’s top order.”
Kuldeep’s entrance as DC’s sixth bowler was questioned by the likes of Wasim Jaffer, who described the tactics as “strange,” stressing the need for an early breakthrough. Ambati Rayudu echoed this sentiment by highlighting Kuldeep’s effectiveness against left-hand batsmen, suggesting that he could have troubled KKR’s Sunil Narine. “Especially today when KKR batsmen were going great guns, I felt they should’ve brought a spinner on for sure,” Rayudu remarked.
Furthermore, Axar Patel’s exclusion from the powerplay was another talking point. Having demonstrated his capability in that phase against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Axar remained absent from the powerplay action despite his effective four-over spell later in the innings.
Rayudu pondered the need for Axar to operate in the early stage, commenting, “I think [Axar could’ve bowled] definitely for an over at least.” As DC reflects on their strategic choices in this match, re-evaluating the timing and use of their spin assets could be crucial for future encounters.
