IPL 2020-Qualifier 2: SWOT Analysis of Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals SWOT Analysis

 

One of the most inconsistent yet threatening side in the Indian Premier League, Delhi Capitals face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2. Delhi Capitals haven’t reached the finals even once in 13 editions let alone winning the trophy. However, the team finds themselves in a great position in 2020 with things going their way. Losing the game against Mumbai Indians was a testament to the team’s inconsistency.

Before locking their horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2, here is the SWOT Analysis of Delhi Capitals:

 

#1) Strengths

Delhi Capitals have one of the best bowling attacks in the league. After signing Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada has been able to bowl well and both have shared the duties at the death overs for Delhi Capitals. In IPL 2020, the fast-bowling due have accounted for 45 wickets that Delhi Capitals claimed in the ongoing season.

On the other hand, the spinners also have complimented the team well. Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel have not only bowled economically but also have claimed the wickets. Axar Patel has accounted for 6.46 runs per over whereas Ashwin has bowled at 7.5 pro.

 

#2) Weaknesses

Though it should be a strength of the team, the Indian batting contingent of Delhi Capitals has turned out to be a weakness of the side in the recent games. The batsmen have failed to open the account let alone scoring big runs. In the last five games, Shikhar Dhawan has failed to open the account thrice whereas Prithvi Shaw is going through a horrendous run.

Even Ajinkya Rahane, who was paired with Shikhar Dhawan for a game or two, the player also succumbed to a duck. Against Sunrisers Hyderabad’s bowling unit, it will be a daunting task if the openers fail to get going.

 

#3) Opportunities

Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw have had a disastrous season in 2020 till now. Rishabh Pant has scored 285 runs from 12 games at a strike rate of 109.66 whereas Prithvi Shaw has 228 runs in 13 games. Prithvi Shaw has averaged 17.53 with the highest score being 66.

Against Sunrisers Hyderabad, these two will have a point to prove. Rishabh Pant has already lost his place in the ODI and T20I setup whereas Prithvi Shaw might be neglected in the Tour Down Under in the presence of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul. It remains how these two perform in the game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday.

On the other hand, Axar Patel is having a good IPL till now. The pitches in UAE has assisted the spinners and the player has used the conditions in the best possible way. In IPL 2020, he has claimed 8 wickets at an economy of 6.46 whereas he has also scored 100+ runs at a strike rate of 142.10. With the Indian team looking for all-rounders who can contribute at the fag end of the innings, Axar Patel has a chance to leave a great impression on the selectors.

 

#4) Threats

Sunrisers Hyderabad has a good batting contingent who can play the spin well. Though Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel have bowled well, it remains difficult for them to bowl against the likes of David Warner, Manish Pandey, and Kane Williamson who are looking to kick out the opposition from the word go. If Wriddhiman Saha is back into the line-up, it becomes much more difficult for Delhi Capitals as the player is known for ramp-up and lap shots.

Also, the absence of depth in the bowling line-up can cost the side. Only Marcus Stoinis can roll over his arms but at death, it is a risk for a captain to take. If Kagiso Rabada or Anrich Nortje goes for runs, it remains difficult for Delhi Capitals to stage a comeback at Abu Dhabi.