From Yuvi to Maxi: Delhi Capitals' Top-5 Most Expensive Buys
DC still has to win the IPL despite splurging big money (iplt20.com)
Delhi Capitals, the once-promising team of the Indian Premier League, has had a tumultuous journey throughout the history of the tournament. With a blazing start, they charged into the competition with two successive semi-final finishes, fueling hopes of impending dominance. Yet, their initial glory was short-lived as they struggled to assert themselves in the subsequent nine seasons, making it to the playoffs only once.
To revive their underperforming side, they underwent a radical makeover, rechristening themselves as the Delhi Capitals with a fresh jersey, an invigorating logo, and a new anthem.
Let's dive deeper into Delhi Capitals’ top five most expensive signings at the IPL auctions over the years.
#5 Glenn Maxwell: INR 9 cr
Glenn Maxwell had a nightmarish IPL campaign in 2018 (iplt20.com)
DC acquired the services of explosive Australian all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, for a whopping INR 9 crore ahead of IPL 2018. The right-hander, known for his big-hitting abilities and off-spin bowling, was expected to be a game-changer for the franchise. However, the Australian struggled to find his feet in the tournament, failing to live up to his hefty price tag.
In 12 matches, Maxwell could only manage to score a meagre 169 runs at an appalling average of 14.08, a far cry from his usual dominant self. His lacklustre performance was not limited to batting alone as he could only pick up five wickets with his spin bowling, leaving a lot to be desired.
#4 Kevin Pietersen: INR 9 cr
Pietersen couldn't create desired impact at Delhi in IPL 2014 (iplt20.com)
Delhi Daredevils made a splash at the 2014 IPL auction when they snagged Kevin Pietersen for a whopping INR 9 crore. The English batter had already played for the franchise in 2012 and had a remarkable season, scoring 305 runs at a scorching strike rate of 147, which included a sensational unbeaten century.
With the captain's armband on his sleeve, Pietersen was expected to lead Delhi to greater heights. However, his form deserted him in 2014 as he could only manage 294 runs in 11 games at an average of 29.40 and a strike rate of 126.18. Disappointed with his underwhelming performance, the franchise had no choice but to let him go.
#3 Shardul Thakur: INR 10.75 cr
Shardul Thakur was traded to KKR ahead of IPL 2023 (iplt20.com)
After a fruitful stint with the Chennai Super Kings, where he proved his mettle with both the ball and the bat, Shardul was released by the team ahead of the 2022 season. But his stellar record caught the attention of the Delhi Capitals.
Shardul's prowess with the ball and his ability to score crucial runs down the order earned him a massive payday of INR 10.75 crore.
His worth was proven in the 14 matches he played for the team in the 2022 season, where he took a total of 15 wickets and scored 120 runs. However, it wasn’t enough as Delhi management decided to trade the all-rounder to Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2023.
#2. Dinesh Karthik: INR 12.5 cr
DK was released by Delhi after just one season (iplt20.com)
Karthik, has had a long and eventful career in the IPL, playing for six different franchises over the years. After starting his IPL journey with Delhi for the first three seasons in 2008, 2009, and 2010, DK returned to the team in 2014 and made history by becoming the recipient of the most expensive acquisition of the season, costing the Delhi franchise a whopping INR 12.5 crore.
The veteran's performance in the 2014 season was mixed, with the keeper-batter playing 14 matches and scoring 325 runs at an average of 23.21 and a strike rate of 125.96, including three half-centuries.
While his performance was not bad, it was not good enough to justify his hefty price tag, leaving the Delhi franchise with a significant dent in their pocket. Subsequently, Delhi decided to release him after just a solitary season.
#1 Yuvraj Singh: INR 16 cr
Yuvraj Singh failed to live up to his colossal price tag (iplt20.com)
Delhi Capitals made headlines in the IPL 2015 auctions by acquiring Yuvraj Singh for a jaw-dropping amount of INR 16 crore. This made him the most expensive acquisition in the franchise's history. Yuvraj's inclusion in the team raised expectations, but unfortunately, he could not live up to his price tag.
The legendary batter played 14 games in that season, scoring a subpar 248 runs at an average of 19.07, with two half-centuries to his name. Despite his dismal performance, his aura and reputation made him a valuable asset to the team. However, Delhi released him after the season, as they looked to revamp their team for the upcoming seasons.
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