New Delhi,Excitement is building for the third edition of the Delhi Premier League (DPL) as captains of all eight franchises came together on Wednesday for the official pre-season press conference ahead of the tournament’s opening match on July 31 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Organised by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), the month-long T20 tournament will run from July 31 to August 30, bringing together some of Delhi’s finest cricketers in what promises to be the biggest and most competitive edition of the league to date.
Following a successful player auction earlier this month, all eight franchises have finalised their squads and are eager to begin their campaigns. The tournament will open with an exciting clash between Central Delhi Kings and Purani Dilli 6 at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, while the grand finale is scheduled for August 30.
Speaking at the press conference, the captains expressed confidence in their preparations and shared their excitement about the season ahead.
Newly appointed Purani Dilli 6 captain Anuj Rawat said it was a privilege to lead the franchise.
“It is an honour to captain Purani Dilli 6. We have assembled a balanced squad with a good mix of experienced and young players. The atmosphere around the league is fantastic, and we are looking forward to playing in front of our home fans. Our aim is to play positive cricket and give our best in every match,”Rawat said.
South Delhi Superstarz skipper Ayush Badoni highlighted the increasing standard of competition in the league.
“The quality of cricket in the DPL has been outstanding, and every team looks competitive this season. We have prepared well and are excited to get onto the field. Hopefully, we can entertain the fans and perform consistently throughout the tournament,” he said.
Representing defending champions West Delhi Lions, vice-captain Ayush Doseja said the team is determined to retain its title.
“Winning the championship last season has given us confidence, but every new season brings fresh challenges. Every team has strengthened its squad, so we know it won’t be easy. Our focus is on playing quality cricket and defending our title,” he said.
Outer Delhi Warriors captain Siddhant Sharma expressed confidence in his team’s balance and preparation.
“The team environment has been excellent since the auction. Everyone is eager to contribute, and we have worked hard in preparation. We are excited to begin the season and hope to make our supporters proud,”Sharma said.
Central Delhi Kings captain Yash Dhull described the DPL as an important platform for emerging cricketers.
“The DPL provides a wonderful opportunity for Delhi’s cricketers to showcase their talent. We have built a strong unit, and our goal is to play fearless cricket while maintaining consistency throughout the tournament,”Dhull said.
East Delhi Riders skipper Mayank Rawat said his squad was eager to take on the challenge.
“There is tremendous excitement within the team. Every player is motivated, and we are looking forward to competing against some of the best talent in Delhi. It promises to be a fantastic tournament,” he remarked.
North Delhi Strikers captain Sarthak Ranjan noted that the league continues to improve with every edition.
“The standard of competition keeps rising every year, making the tournament even more exciting. We are confident in our preparations and can’t wait to get started. Our focus is on playing disciplined and aggressive cricket,” he said.
New Delhi Tigers captain Himmat Singh believes cricket fans are in for a thrilling month.
“The DPL has established itself as one of the premier domestic T20 leagues in the country. All the teams are well-balanced, and the competition will be intense. We are eager to begin our campaign and give the fans plenty to cheer about,” Singh said.
With all eight captains expressing confidence in their squads and preparations, the stage is set for another action-packed edition of the Delhi Premier League. Cricket fans can expect a month of high-quality T20 action featuring some of the capital’s brightest talents as the race for the DPL Season 3 title begins on July 31 with the opening encounter between Central Delhi Kings and Purani Dilli 6 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
