New Delhi: Murali Kartik has strongly criticised Delhi Capitals for not giving Prithvi Shaw an opportunity in IPL 2026, following the team’s heavy eight-wicket defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders.
Delhi Capitals’ struggles continued as their batting unit once again failed to deliver, managing a modest total of 142/8 in 20 overs. In response, Kolkata chased down the target comfortably in just 14.2 overs, underlining DC’s poor form in both departments.
Kartik questions team selection logic
Speaking during a discussion on Cricbuzz, Kartik did not hold back in questioning the team management’s decision to keep Shaw on the bench despite repeated failures from the playing XI.
“If you have Prithvi Shaw… you brought him back and picked him in the auction. You have picked him on the basis of some logic and you have not looked at him,” Kartik said.
He emphasised that Shaw’s inclusion as an opener could provide greater flexibility to the batting order, especially at a time when the team is struggling to find consistency at the top.
“You have a gun opener. He is there for a reason. You are looking at everyone except Prithvi,” he added, expressing frustration over the lack of opportunities given to the young batter.
Notably, Delhi Capitals secured Shaw for ₹75 lakh in the IPL 2026 auction, signalling renewed faith in his abilities after a period out of favour.
Batting collapse dents Delhi again
DC’s innings showed early promise but quickly unravelled due to a middle-order collapse. Pathum Nissanka was the lone bright spot, scoring a composed 50.
However, key players including Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, and captain Axar Patel failed to capitalise on the start, leading to another underwhelming total.
The repeated pattern of losing wickets in clusters has become a major concern for the franchise, severely impacting their ability to post competitive scores.
KKR dominate with ease
Kolkata Knight Riders made light work of the chase, thanks to a sensational unbeaten century by Finn Allen. He was well supported by Cameron Green, who remained not out on 33.
The duo dismantled the Delhi bowling attack with aggressive strokeplay, sealing the victory with more than five overs to spare.
The emphatic win boosted KKR’s playoff hopes, taking them to nine points from 10 matches, while Delhi Capitals slipped further down the table.
Axar Patel admits team failures
After the match, Axar Patel acknowledged that both batting and bowling units underperformed, contributing to the comprehensive defeat.
“For now, we’ll go back and think about the mistakes we made. After that, obviously there’s still a long journey ahead and next year will come too,” Axar said, hinting at a shift in focus towards future planning.
He also indicated that the team management may start experimenting with players on the bench in the remaining matches.
“Based on that, we can also look at the players sitting on the bench and decide who can be given opportunities and what changes we can make,” he added.
Playoff hopes hanging by a thread
With just eight points from 11 matches, Delhi Capitals are currently placed eighth in the standings, making their path to the playoffs extremely difficult.
In contrast, Kolkata Knight Riders have revived their campaign with this crucial win, although their qualification chances still depend on consistent performances in the remaining fixtures.
Conclusion
Delhi Capitals’ continued struggles have brought team selection decisions under scrutiny, with Murali Kartik’s remarks highlighting a growing concern over the non-utilisation of Prithvi Shaw. As the franchise looks ahead to rebuilding for the next season, giving opportunities to bench players could provide valuable insights.
Whether Shaw gets a chance in the remaining matches could be a key storyline, especially as DC attempt to salvage pride from an otherwise disappointing IPL 2026 campaign.