Why T Natarajan should replace Mukesh Kumar for key DC vs KKR game?

Delhi Capitals (DC) host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in what promises to be a key encounter for a potential spot in the playoffs. Delhi Capitals are coming into the game with a loss in their previous encounter against Royal Challenger Bengaluru. On the other hand, KKR got one point after their game against Punjab Kings was abandoned due to heavy downpour. 

One of the key questions that is being raised is regarding T. Natarajan’s absence from the Delhi Capitals side. The 34-year-old was picked up by DC for INR 10.75 crores in the auctions and hasn't been given a single game. Natarajan had a stellar IPL season in 2020, where he picked 16 wickets and eventually played for India.

Natarajan has picked 47 wickets in the last three seasons of the IPL, which included his 19 scalps in the 2024 edition. 
DC mentor Kevin Pietersen hit out at reporters when asked about Natarajan not being picked. The former England skipper said, “We can only play 12 players, one being an impact player. And if you can tell me where he fits in at the moment, you would help us. If you can help us play 13-14, it would help us. One thing I can say about Natarajan is that he's doing everything that he's been asked to do, as are all of our players.”

Mukesh Kumar bowled a dreadful 19th over in the last game against RCB, which saw Tim David run amok and win the game for his side. Many fans were left confused by Axar Patel’s decision of not bowling Mitchell Starc in the 19th over to make the game interesting. Ahead of a tricky encounter against KKR, focus will be on the likely DC playing XI, as many fans will be keen to see if Natarajan does get a chance to play. 

Mukesh Kumar vs T Natarajan: Who holds the edge?

In terms of experience, it is Natarajan who comes out on top with 67 wickets from 61 games. Mukesh Kumar has played 29 games in the IPL and picked 33 wickets. Natarajan’s career economy rate in the IPL is 8.83 runs per over, while Mukesh’s economy rate is 10.29. 

Death bowling analysis

One of the key areas Mukesh has struggled over the years in the IPL is his death bowling. The right-arm seamer doesn’t land the yorker on a consistent basis in the final few overs of the game. Natarajan, on the other hand, has a very lethal yorker and a terrific slower ball. The left-arm seamer has an arsenal of tricks up his sleeve to unsettle the batters and potentially pick wickets for his side. 

Record against KKR

In the 10 games that Natarajan has played against KKR, the left-arm seamer has picked 15 wickets. Mukesh has played just one game against KKR and picked a solitary wicket, which came in the 2023 season. Considering that Natarajan has enjoyed his massive success against KKR in the IPL, it will be a wise decision to play him over Mukesh Kumar. 

Will the pitch help DC make the final call?

With the season nearing its end, each and every pitch across the country is set to witness some wear and tear. Barring the wickets in Dharamshala, every centre is set to have bowlers have a huge say in the outcome of the games. Natarajan’s overall effectiveness with the old ball could swing the decision in his favour for the DC vs KKR game. Arun Jaitley Stadium is set to host its second game in three days and one can expect the playing surfaces to wear a worn-out look. This could make run scoring tough in the latter half of the game and picking Natarajan over Mukesh Kumar could swing the game in DC’s favor.