SWOT Analysis IPL 2024: Will Rishabh Pant's Return Propel Delhi Capitals To Title Triumph?

Delhi Capitals (DC) are preparing for the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League by welcoming their skipper Rishabh Pant back to the squad. Pant suffered a near-death road accident in late 2022 which ruled him out of action for more than a year but he is now raring to make a return to the team by leading from the front.

Last year, the David Warner-led DC did not fare well and finished in the ninth spot with five wins and nine losses in IPL 2023. The last time Delhi were close to IPL glory was in 2020 when they suffered a heartbreaking five-wicket loss against Mumbai Indians in the final.

According to the two-week schedule released by the Board of Cricket for Control in India (BCCI), Delhi Capitals will battle against Punjab Kings in both teams' first IPL 2024 match at the Punjab Cricket Association New Stadium in Mullanpur on March 23.

During the IPL mini-auction in December 2023, Delhi Capitals bought Harry Brook, Tristan Stubbs, Shai Hope, Jhye Richardson, Kumar Kushagra, Sumit Kumar, Ricky Bhui, Rasikh Dar, Swastik Chikara.

In addition, retained players like David Warner, Anrich Nortje, Axar Patel, Mitchell Marsh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prithvi Shaw, Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed and, Ishant Sharma will be hoping to produce quality performances in IPL 2024 after underwhelming collective displays last season.

With a good blend of experienced players and promising youngsters, the Capitals have the potential to enjoy a strong campaign in IPL 2024. However, they also face challenges that could test their resolve and here we look at their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and, threats ahead of the new season.

Strengths

A fit-again Rishabh Pant will make his return to bolster Delhi Capitals. He's scored 2,838 runs in 98 IPL