Australian cricketer Jake Fraser-McGurk will not be returning to the IPL for Delhi Capitals this season. He follows the departure of Jamie Overton from Chennai Super Kings as the second overseas player confirmed to skip the rest of the tournament, which recommences on 17 May. Initially acquired for INR 9 crore (approx. £864,000) during the mega auction, Fraser-McGurk has reportedly informed the team about his decision to not rejoin.
While he was a crucial player towards the end of IPL 2024, his performance this season has been lacklustre. Opening the batting for the first six matches, Fraser-McGurk struggled to make an impact, scoring only once in double figures with a top score of 38. This led to his replacement in the team after accumulating a mere 55 runs.
This does not bode well for Delhi Capitals, who are still in the hunt for a playoff spot. They are currently uncertain about the participation of key overseas players, including Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc and South African duo Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs. As Stubbs is part of South Africa’s squad for the World Test Championship final beginning 11 June, Cricket South Africa has stipulated that players involved must adhere to the initial Non-Objection Certificates, valid until 25 May, the original date set for the IPL final.
Reflecting on Fraser-McGurk’s absence, former player Wasim Jaffer commented, “Fraser-McGurk’s high-risk style is difficult to sustain.” Despite these challenges, the Capitals must adapt to ensure their squad remains competitive in the crucial matches ahead.
