Dev Chaudhary, a top-order batter of the New Delhi Tigers came under heavy scrutiny after getting dismissed for a duck in a recent match. On August 15, the Tigers were up against the South Delhi Superstarz at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The game saw the Himmat Singh-led side put up a competitive total of 217 runs with the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. However, they failed to defend it and their rivals chased it successfully with two balls remaining.
Amidst the loss, what caught everyone’s eyes was the Tigers’ opener Dev Chaudhary, who had to walk back on a two-ball duck. Within no time, pictures and videos from the game started to do rounds on social media where fans and experts couldn’t help but notice the cricketer’s unusual batting stance and grip. However, some also compared his elements of his technique to former Australia captain Steve Smith, who is known for his unconventional approach.
But critics didn’t hold back and questioned whether Chaudhary deserved a spot in the team. Not only this, but the discussion was also centred around his cricket profile where a DDCA trial document from 2021 has listed Chaudhary as an U-19 all-rounder, with middle-order batting and right-arm fast bowling. Fans questioned how a player with that role at the junior level moved into an opening position for the team in such a high-profile tournament.
DPL and Team Management Maintain Silence on Dev Chaudhary’s Controversy
The New Delhi Tigers management or DPL organizers are yet to address the controversy and Chaudhary’s selection. For now, the controversy has largely remained driven by social media reactions rather than any formal complaint or official finding against the player. It is, however, yet to be seen whether Chaudhary gets another opportunity at the top of the order or whether the team decides to move him down. As for the team, the Tigers remain involved in the tournament at the league stage, which will continue till August 30.
Speaking of the tournament, the Central Delhi Kings, South Delhi Superstarz, Purani Dilli 6, and Outer Delhi Warriors have made it to the next round, while the rest have been eliminated. Amongst the rest four, the Tigers are seeded at the bottom of the standings with just one win in 10 games.
