IPL 2024: The Delhi Capitals have made a significant addition to their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, securing the services of Australian sensation Jake Fraser-McGurk.
This acquisition comes as a replacement for pace bowler Lungi Ngidi, who has been sidelined due to injury. Ngidi’s last appearance was in the second edition of the SA20 for Paarl Royals, and he has been inactive since February 2nd when he played against Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
Fraser-McGurk hailed as the latest sensation in Australian cricket, caught the attention of former Australian captain Ricky Ponting following his outstanding performances in the Big Bash League earlier this year. Ponting, who also serves as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals, identified the 21-year-old as a future Test player, drawing comparisons to a young David Warner. Ponting’s influence played a pivotal role in the franchise’s decision to sign the talented youngster, securing his services for his reserve price of INR 50 lakh.
For those unfamiliar with Fraser-McGurk, he is renowned for his powerful hitting abilities and garnered attention during the previous season of the BBL. Representing the Melbourne Renegades, he accumulated 257 runs in eight innings, boasting an average of 32.12 and an impressive strike rate of 158.64. Despite the Renegades’ challenging season, finishing seventh out of eight teams, Fraser-McGurk emerged as their highest run-scorer.
Following his remarkable BBL season, Fraser-McGurk earned his ODI debut for Australia against the West Indies, where he showcased his fearless and aggressive batting style by scoring 51 runs in two matches at a staggering strike rate of 221.73.
It remains to be seen whether Fraser-McGurk will secure a spot in the playing XI for the Capitals, considering the formidable lineup already comprising Mitchell Marsh, David Warner, Anrich Nortje, Tristan Stubbs, Jhye Richardson, and Shai Hope. Additionally, with Harry Brook withdrawing from the season, the franchise is yet to announce a replacement for him.
