Jan. 24: The Delhi Daredevils team that had some of the best domestic players in action is sure to lose out a lot on local flavour in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League after left-arm seamer Pradeep Sangwan decided to join Kolkata Knight Riders.
If that wasn’t enough, Delhi Ranji captain Mithun Manhas is also believed to be on his way out and will be playing for Sahara Pune Warriors in the coming IPL season. For Daredevils, who have played in consecutive semifinals in the first two editions, this is a big blow considering that they have lost star opener Gautam Gambhir, bought in the auction for $2.3 million and all-rounder Rajat Bhatia both to KKR.
“It was a conscious decision to join Knight Riders. Firstly, Gautam (Gambhir) is playing for KKR. Also former Delhi coach Vijay Dahiya is a member of the KKR support staff. These two were primary factors that prompted me to join Knight Riders,” Sangwan said.
When asked why he thought of leaving Delhi Daredevils as he is a local boy, he said,”Daredevils already have so many pacers (Morne Morkel, Ajit Agarkar, Ashok Dinda, Umesh Yadav). So I had to weigh my options also.” Manhas on his part didn’t wish to confirm about the development although sources indicated that he has confirmed his deal with the new franchise.