Sehwag will be under the spotlight in Delhi clash

Playing his first competitive match after recovering from surgery on his right shoulder, the Delhi Dasher did nothing of note for the Rest of India in the domestic opener Irani Cup though he had the satisfaction of leading the side to title over Ranji champions Mumbai in Nagpur last week.

Friday provides the right-hander with an opportunity to set things straight. Bushrangers have a potent bowling line-up led by the fast-improving paceman Peter Siddle. Reputations, however, have mattered little for the hard-hitting opener who will form a dangerous pair at the top of the tree with his successor to the throne Gautam Gambhir.

Still basking in the glory of ICC Test player of the year award, Gambhir’s skills as a leader will be put to test in his capacity as a full-time captain, though he briefly took over the responsibility once Sehwag was rendered hors de combat after injuring his shoulder in South Africa. Along with Sehwag, Australian bowling legend Glenn McGrath, who replaced injured Daniel Vettori, too will be watched with great interest if he finds himself in the final eleven.

Delhi, who topped IPL’s league table in South Africa before losing in the semifinal to eventual winners Deccan Chargers, will have a tough a hurdle to cross in their opener against the Cameron White-led side. The 26-year-old, who plays for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, has at his disposal two of the most dangerous batsmen in this format in Brad Hodge and David Hussey and the fireworks are sure to light up the Delhi skies. 

In the first match of the day, New South Wales Blues will take on Diamond Eagles.