Delhi Capitals Ready to Face Gujarat Titans as IPL 2025 Resumes

Delhi Capitals Eye Fresh Start Against Gujarat Titans as IPL 2025 Resumes

New Delhi, 17 May 2025 – After a brief and unexpected pause in the IPL 2025 season, the Delhi Capitals are ready to hit the reset button as they gear up to face Gujarat Titans at their home ground, the Arun Jaitley Stadium, this Sunday, May 18. The much-anticipated clash marks Delhi's 12th match of the season, and the team is eager to convert their momentum into playoff contention in what is now a condensed sprint to the finish.

With injuries and player withdrawals posing fresh challenges, Delhi Capitals, co-owned by JSW and GMR, are entering this crucial stage of the league with renewed focus, unity, and belief. The team has regrouped following the departure of star pacer Mitchell Starc and all-rounder Donovan Ferreira, who are unavailable for the remainder of the tournament. However, experienced campaigners like Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the squad, boosting morale and balance.

Vipraj Nigam on DC's Reboot and Readiness

One of the most exciting young talents to emerge this season, 20-year-old all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, shared his thoughts ahead of Delhi’s return to action. Known for his composure and versatility, Vipraj has steadily become a valuable asset for DC. Speaking on the eve of the match, he emphasized the importance of treating the restart as an opportunity to start afresh.

“We are taking it as a fresh start. Our focus is on how we began our campaign from the first game, and we will try to continue that momentum,” said Vipraj, highlighting the need for a mentally clear and forward-looking approach.

While acknowledging the absence of key overseas players, including Starc, he remained grounded and optimistic: “It is tough to replace someone like Mitchell Starc, but we’ve regrouped as a team. We don’t want to dwell on players who aren’t here. We will give our best with the players available.”

A Special Bond with Kuldeep Yadav

Vipraj also opened up about his relationship with Kuldeep Yadav, one of India’s premier spinners and a pivotal figure in Delhi’s bowling unit. Both players hail from Uttar Pradesh, and the synergy is clearly built on more than just team dynamics.

“The good thing is that we are from the same state, and I’ve played a good number of matches with him,” Vipraj shared. “The IPL is a new experience for me, but Kuldeep has been playing for a long time. He sees me both as a player and as a younger brother.”

This chemistry between the two could be vital in the middle overs, especially against teams like Gujarat Titans, who possess firepower in both their top and middle order.

From State Leagues to the IPL: Vipraj’s Journey

One of the standout themes of Vipraj’s interview was his recognition of how domestic cricket and state-level T20 leagues have shaped his IPL readiness. He candidly spoke about the importance of adapting to various formats throughout the Indian domestic season.

“The domestic season is always important for an Indian player,” he explained. “You have to prepare for all three formats. If the T20s start early, the IPL becomes a good experience, but it’s not always like that. You have to switch from red-ball to white-ball formats frequently, and that’s a challenge. But it’s fun to play cricket across formats.”

Reflecting on his experience in his state T20 league, he added, “It’s the same process and pressure. I’ve been playing in the state league for the past two seasons, and it’s helped me grow. It’s playing a very important role in how I handle situations in the IPL now.”

Capitals Set for Crucial Clash at Home

Delhi’s home ground, the Arun Jaitley Stadium, is expected to be a sea of blue as fans return to back their team in full voice. With the playoff race intensifying, the Capitals cannot afford a slip-up. Gujarat Titans, a well-drilled and dynamic side, pose a strong challenge, especially with players like Shubman Gill, Sai Kishore, and Mohammed Shami in their ranks.

However, with senior players like Faf du Plessis back in the mix and young talents like Vipraj Nigam and Axar Patel thriving, Delhi will look to control the game from the onset.

DC currently sits mid-table and will need to win at least three of their remaining games to realistically stay in the top-four hunt. The upcoming fixture is crucial for their resurgence and confidence.