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"Would Play For RCB": Navdeep Saini Credits Gambhir's Guidance Eyeing IPL Return

Soumyajit Dutta

Navdeep Saini on Gambhir and RCB wish [Source: @PTI_News/X.com]Navdeep Saini on Gambhir and RCB wish [Source: @PTI_News/X.com]

Driven by a fierce desire to reclaim his India spot, fast bowler Navdeep Saini is pouring his energy into the Delhi Premier League 2025 (DPL 2025). Absent from the national team since 2021 and overlooked in the IPL 2025 auction due to injuries and inconsistent form, Saini is using the DPL as his comeback platform with East Delhi Riders.

After a slow start adjusting to white-ball cricket, Saini has found his rhythm, delivering impressive spells of 1/21 and 2/22 in recent matches. He attributes this resurgence to meticulous self-analysis and correction after initial setbacks.

Navdeep Speaks On His Recent Form

Reflecting on his early struggles, Navdeep Saini admitted that his start wasn't great but he managed to cope up with the wicket soon.

"Yes, in the beginning, especially since I hadn't played much competitive cricket for a while - the start wasn't great... After that, the results speak for themselves... the bowling has been good, and everything's going better now," Saini told India Today.

The DPL marks his return to white-ball cricket after focusing on red-ball formats like the Duleep and Ranji Trophies last season. While his first-class performances earned him an India A call-up, the IPL snub stung. Saini acknowledged the doubts about his T20 prowess but believes the DPL is silencing critics.

"Yes, last time I wasn't in the IPL... Now with this DPL going on, the way I'm bowling, I think it's clear to everyone that Navdeep is back on track - bowling the way I used to, with the same spark as before," Saini added.

Saini Eyes RCB Return After IPL 2025 Snub

Despite stints with Rajasthan Royals, Saini's heart remains with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where he spent three seasons. He expressed immense joy at their 2025 IPL title win, especially for Virat Kohli.

"Honestly, I’d love to play for RCB... And this time, when they finally did it, it felt amazing - especially for Virat bhai... It really felt like he deserved it," Saini added.

Saini Backs 'Mentor' Gambhir

Saini also staunchly defended head coach Gautam Gambhir against early criticism, crediting him for integrating new players like him back in the days.

"Even when I played under him in domestic cricket, his captaincy was different. And now, as a coach, even though some people doubted whether he would succeed - especially after losing one or two matches - the results are clear for everyone to see. When a new player enters the team, integrating them and helping them gel with the squad is very important. Even if one match goes off, that's part of the process. But under his coaching, you can see the kind of results we've achieved - they speak for themselves," Navdeep concluded.

With East Delhi Riders well-placed in DPL 2025 and three league games left, Saini has a prime opportunity to showcase his revived form, targeting both IPL 2026 and an India recall. His singular focus is on delivering match-winning performances to propel his team to a second successive title and reignite his elite career.