Kevin Pietersen responds to T Natarajan’s exclusion after DC’s defeat to RCB

Delhi Capitals faced a setback in their IPL 2025 campaign after a home defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday, April 27, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Following the loss, experts and journalists raised concerns about the team’s decisions, particularly questioning the exclusion of left-arm pacer T Natarajan from the playing XI.

Pietersen defends team selection and praises squad depth

Responding to the growing criticism, Delhi Capitals mentor Kevin Pietersen defended the team’s selection choices during the post-match press conference.

“We can only play 12 players, one being an impact player. And if you can tell me where he fits in at the moment, you would help us,” Pietersen remarked. “If you can help us play 13-14, it would help us.”

Pietersen emphasized that Natarajan, along with other squad members not featuring in the playing XI, remains fully committed and prepared for his opportunity.

“One thing I can say about Natarajan is that he’s doing everything that he’s been asked to do, as are all of our players,” he said. “What’s been so impressive about our setup is how good the guys are that are not playing, and they know that their chance is just around the corner.”

Delhi Capitals focus on bouncing back

Despite the defeat, Delhi Capitals hold the fourth position in the IPL 2025 points table with six wins from nine games. With the race for the playoffs heating up, the team aims to regroup quickly.

DC will return to action against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday, April 29, looking to solidify their spot in the top four. Pietersen expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to bounce back and reiterated that every member, including those yet to play, remains crucial to their playoff ambitions.

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