Thu Oct 17 08:56:32 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Capitals Set to Retain Core Players, Hemang Badani Frontrunner for Head Coach Role
The Delhi Capitals are poised for a new era as they prepare for the upcoming IPL season. The franchise has announced plans to retain three key players – skipper Rishabh Pant (Rs 18 crore), all-rounder Axar Patel (Rs 14 crore), and spinner Kuldeep Yadav (Rs 11 crore).
Meanwhile, a leadership change is expected on the coaching front. Hemang Badani, former Tamil Nadu cricketer and former assistant coach at Sunrisers Hyderabad, is the leading contender to take over the head coach position, replacing Ricky Ponting who stepped down due to scheduling conflicts. Munaf Patel is also being considered for a support staff role, potentially as bowling coach.
The franchise aims to retain two foreign players – Jake Fraser-McGurk and Tristan Stubbs – using Right to Match cards, subject to their prices staying within budget. This potential move reflects a shift in strategy as GMR, one of the co-owners, takes charge of team operations for the next two years.
Badani, if appointed, will face the challenging task of guiding Delhi Capitals to their first-ever IPL title. Despite reaching the finals in 2020, they are yet to secure the coveted trophy.
**In other news:**
Mumbai Airport Police have registered a case against an unidentified individual for spreading a fake bomb threat on SpiceJet flights via Twitter. The threat caused widespread panic and led to the evacuation of passengers, highlighting the serious consequences of spreading false information on social media. Police are currently investigating the matter and urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
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