In what seems to be a shocking announcement, Gautam Gambhir said that he is stepping down as Delhi Daredevils captain on Wednesday and takes full responsibility for the team’s performance this season. Mumbai batsman Shreyas Iyer will take over the captain for the remaining eight matches.
Delhi Daredevils have started the 11th edition of Vivo Indian Premier League on a low with 5 defeats in 6 games.
“It is absolutely my decision. As leader of the ship, I take complete responsibility for where we are in the points table. I have decided to step down. Shreyas Iyer will take my place and take this franchise forward. I still feel we have the team to turn things around this," Gambhir said during a press conference.
“It’s never too early and never too late. I’ve always set high standards for myself as a player. As leader of the group, I have to take the responsibility. I was not good enough. The bells started ringing after the last game, which we should have won,” he added. While Delhi insist that he will be available for selection, it remains to be seen if he will be picked in the playing XI.
We’re live in a Press conference with @inspiranti @GautamGambhir #RickyPonting https://t.co/EJ3JoZ68XC
— Delhi Daredevils (@DelhiDaredevils) April 25, 2018
True, that I’ve stepped down from DD captaincy. Just to clarify it was my call, nothing from the management or coaching staff. I may not be leading from the front but I will be the last man standing for @DelhiDaredevils. No individual bigger than d team. Very much a #DilDIlli
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) April 25, 2018
Heman Dua, the CEO of the team, said that Gambhir will be around as a mentor for Iyer. “It’s a decision Gautam took on his own and we salute his contribution and the effort he’s taken. There aren’t many such examples in India. It’s a massive example and it should set the tone for the rest of the cricketers, where the team comes first. Gautam will be around the group and mentor Shreyas into captaincy. He will carry on with DD as a mentor and play a bigger role,” he told the media.
Coach Ricky Ponting praised Gambhir for putting team ahead of himself. “I fully endorse Iyer as captain,” the Australian said.
“Gautam deserves respect for the way he handled the situation. It’s not common in Indian cricket – someone of his stature, talent, overall ability and record to do this. I did it in Mumbai Indians and Gautam’s decided to do the right thing. He should get credit for what he’s done. He’s created an opportunity for one of India’s best young players,” Ponting said.
“I honestly believe we do have a chance to reach the playoffs, absolutely. We’ve been able to play good cricket but a couple of overs have cost us the game. We’ve played well for 35 of the 40 overs. The difference between our best cricket and worst cricket has been large. We’ve got a lot of home games coming up, including last four. I’ll make sure the guys work hard and are well prepared,” he added.
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