Two months after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League 2023, the Delhi Capitals have released Ajit Agarkar and Shane Watson from their coaching staff. The move comes after Delhi finished second last in the tournament’s previous season. Both players served as assistant coaches for the team, which was led by Ricky Ponting (Head Coach) and Sourav Ganguly (Director of Cricket).
The extended coaching staff was scheduled to be cut – after the season – according to reports that surfaced in the middle of the season when Delhi was losing back-to-back games.
One of the IPL Sources told the following on PTI:
“Obviously, nothing will happen mid-season but the poor result for two successive seasons will have its share of repercussions when JSW and GMR, the two co-owners sit back and take stock of the season.”
“So you will certainly not have this jumbo coaching staff next season for sure. There will be a few heads that might roll,” the source added.
Sourav Ganguly was the previous Director of Cricket, and the coaching staff included Ponting (head coach), James Hopes (assistant coach), Ajit Agarkar (assistant coach), Shane Watson (assistant coach), Pravin Amre (assistant coach), and Biju George (assistant coach).
Concerns for Delhi Capitals in 2023
With Rishabh Pant ruled out of the IPL 2023 season due to a car accident last year, Delhi faced a predicament even before the first ball was bowled. In his absence, David Warner was given the reins. Delhi has only won five of its 14 matches this season.
This season, Delhi has dealt with a number of challenges. David Warner, who was chosen captain in Rishabh Pant’s absence, struggled to bat well for the most of the competition. Delhi’s batting problems lingered throughout the competition, with players such as Prithvi Shaw and Rovman Powell failing to make an impression.
Controversy surrounding Axar Patel’s location in the lineup, where the all-rounder consistently batted at No. 7 despite having higher ability than batters who batted ahead of him.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action; follow Cricadium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram