New Delhi: Shreyas Iyer has returned to the Delhi Capitals camp for the second part of Indian Premier League (IPL) season 14. Delhi Capitals, however, have made it clear that despite Iyer's return, the team will be led by Rishabh Pant. Iyer, who pushed Delhi Capitals to finals last year, may not even feature in the playing XI.
Shreyas Iyer suffered a shoulder injury in the limited over series against England in March. It took Iyer nearly four months to recover from the injury.
During this time from recovery, Iyer lost the captaincy of his IPL team and it also cost him a place in the Team India squad for this year's T20 World Cup.
There was no significant difference in the performance of the Delhi Capitals due to Iyer's absence. Delhi Capitals, led by Rishabh Pant, won 6 of the 8 matches and are almost certain to reach playoffs. Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan have got Delhi Capitals off to a good start in almost every match in the first half of IPL 14.
Strong Contenders For No. 3
Iyer will face tough competition from Steve Smith to make it to the number 3 in the batting order. Ricky Ponting is showing immense confidence in Smith.
Delhi Capitals also have options like Hetmyer and Stoinis for number 3 and number 4 spots while Rishabh Pant's place is already fixed. Iyer is not known to bat below the number 4 spot may have a difficult time making it to the playing XI.
Since Shreyas Iyer is returning to cricket after a long gap, the Delhi Capitals may avoid the risk of giving him a place in their opening matches. However, Shreyas Iyer may feature in the playing 11 after Delhi Capitals secure a place in the playoffs.