The transition from the Daredevils to the Capitals represents a deeper shift for a team tired of being the perennial underdog. Amit Mishra, a legendary spinner and one of the top wicket-takers in IPL history, believes that bringing Shikhar Dhawan back into the fold provides the balance the team has been missing. In Mishra's view, this addition makes the Delhi Capitals serious contenders for the championship this year.
Dhawan arrives with a proven track record of 4,058 IPL runs and a batting style that ranks him among the elite in the short format of the game. Mishra believes Dhawan could be the catalyst that changes Delhi's trajectory this season. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Mishra expressed his excitement, noting that Dhawan is a close friend who has been in exceptional form for the national team. He expects Dhawan to deliver high-impact performances and lead the team to victories, adding that having a top-tier left-handed opener will create a dynamic opening partnership that benefits the entire batting order.
Despite finishing dead last with only 10 points in the previous season, Mishra is optimistic about the future. He feels that structural changes within the organization have boosted morale. 'We're pumped for the new season,' Mishra shared, highlighting that the new name and fresh faces have created a positive atmosphere. He describes the current squad as well-balanced and driven, noting that everyone is eager to turn things around. Mishra himself is coming off a solid campaign where he claimed 12 wickets in 10 matches.
When asked if this revamped squad is ready to end Delhi's long wait for a trophy, Mishra was confident but cautious. While he believes the team is balanced and hungry for success, he emphasized the importance of staying grounded and focusing on one match at a time rather than obsessing over the final result. Mishra remains one of the most dominant spinners in IPL history; his tally of 146 wickets is second only to the legendary Lasith Malinga, who has 154.
Despite his status, the 35-year-old veteran isn't complacent, knowing that competition for a starting spot will be fierce. The Capitals have invested heavily, spending 5 crores on all-rounder Axar Patel, while also featuring Rahul Tewatia and the talented Nepalese spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. Tewatia, acquired for 3 crores in 2018, had a breakout year with 12 wickets, and Lamichhane arrives with momentum from a strong Big Bash League showing in Australia. Mishra is taking it in stride, stating that he will play whatever role the coaching staff requires, trusting their strategic vision for the squad.
Tewatia was bought for 3 crores in 2018 the deal and did outperforming incredible last season where he ended up with 12 wickets. Lamichhane of course lit up the starting late wrapped up Big Bash League in Australia. “I will endeavor to play according to the team’s necessity. If they (trainer and squad the officials) have made a team with all of us, they probably thought something and a while later continued with it,” Mishra said.
Mishra is entering the season with a positive mindset, ready to contribute whenever called upon. 'I feel confident and optimistic,' he noted, adding that he is happy to serve the team in any capacity. Having played the game for years, he views his primary role as a wicket-taker. His goal is simple: if he's in the starting eleven, he intends to take crucial breakthroughs to help Delhi secure wins.
Mishra also praised the leadership of young captain Shreyas Iyer, who took over after Gautam Gambhir's sudden departure last year. He believes Iyer's open-minded approach is his greatest strength. According to Mishra, Iyer doesn't force his will on the team but instead listens to his teammates and consults the senior players before making key decisions. This collaborative leadership style, Mishra believes, is exactly what the team needs to succeed.