Delhi Capitals, the runners-up of the last edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), are hoping to clinch their first-ever title in the upcoming season under the captaincy of Meg Lanning, the legendary Australian batter. Lanning, who joined the franchise in 2023, has been involved in the team’s preparations and strategies for the auction and the tournament. Lanning will also have the support of coach Jonathan Batty, who praised her skills and experience.
Delhi Capitals lost to Mumbai Indians in the WPL 2023 final
Delhi Capitals had a remarkable run in the WPL 2023, where they finished second in the league stage with eight wins and four losses. They also defeated Chennai Super Kings in the Qualifier 1 by six wickets, thanks to a brilliant knock of 85 not out by Lanning. However, they failed to cross the final hurdle, as they lost to Mumbai Indians by five wickets in a thrilling encounter. Mumbai Indians chased down the target of 165 with two balls to spare, despite Lanning’s valiant effort of 74 runs.
Delhi Capitals, who were formed in 2020, have never won the WPL title, and have reached the final only once. They have also undergone several changes in their squad and management over the years, in search of the elusive trophy. They have also faced some challenges and controversies, such as the injury of their star player Smriti Mandhana in 2022, and the suspension of their former coach Ricky Ponting in 2021.
Meg Lanning joined Delhi Capitals in 2023 as the marquee player
Meg Lanning, widely regarded as one of the best batters in the world, joined Delhi Capitals in 2023 as the marquee player, after leaving Royal Challengers Bangalore. Lanning, who has played 95 WPL matches, has scored 2876 runs at an average of 35.51 and a strike rate of 126.73. She has also hit 19 half-centuries and two centuries, and has won the Player of the Tournament award twice, in 2017 and 2019.
Lanning, who is also the captain of the Australian women’s team, has brought her leadership skills and experience to the Delhi Capitals. She has been involved in the team’s planning and decision-making for the auction and the tournament, along with coach Jonathan Batty and the management. She has also expressed her eagerness and excitement to lead the team in the WPL 2024, and has said that she is confident of the team’s potential and talent.
Jonathan Batty praised Meg Lanning’s skills and experience
Jonathan Batty, who took over as the coach of Delhi Capitals in 2023, after the departure of Gary Kirsten, has praised Meg Lanning’s skills and experience, and has said that she is the best person to lead the team. Batty, who has coached several teams in England and Australia, has said that Lanning is a world-class player and a proven leader, who can inspire and motivate the team. He has also said that Lanning has a great understanding of the game and the conditions, and can adapt to any situation.
Batty has also said that he has a good rapport and communication with Lanning, and that they share the same vision and goals for the team. He has also said that he is looking forward to working with Lanning and the other players, and that he is optimistic about the team’s chances of winning the WPL title for the first time.
Delhi Capitals to face Kolkata Knight Riders in the WPL 2024 opener
Delhi Capitals will kick off their campaign in the WPL 2024 with a match against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 23, 2024, at the Eden Gardens. The match will also mark the return of the WPL to India, after it was held in the UAE in 2023, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The WPL 2024 will feature eight teams, who will play 56 league matches, followed by four playoffs. The final will be held on May 19, 2024, at the Wankhede Stadium.
Delhi Capitals will hope to start their season on a winning note, and carry the momentum throughout the tournament. They will also hope to overcome their past failures, and lift the coveted trophy under Meg Lanning’s leadership. They will also face tough competition from the other teams, especially the defending champions Mumbai Indians, who have retained their core players, such as Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shafali Verma.
