Mayank Dagar Maps Out IPL Comeback Strategy Through Delhi Premier League Debut
After a decade-long career with Himachal Pradesh, left-arm spinner Mayank Dagar is returning to his roots in Delhi. The move aims to leverage the Delhi Premier League as a launchpad back into the IPL spotlight.
Key takeaways
- Mayank Dagar has obtained an NOC to play for Delhi after a ten-year career representing Himachal Pradesh.
- The 29-year-old left-arm spinner will play for North Delhi Strikers in the upcoming third edition of the Delhi Premier League.
- Dagar has 137 First Class wickets and previously played for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL.
- The move is part of a strategic effort to regain visibility for IPL selection after seeing limited action in recent seasons.
Regional Shift and the Path to Delhi
Left-arm orthodox bowler Mayank Dagar has officially transitioned to Delhi cricket after a ten-year tenure with Himachal Pradesh. The 29-year-old, who represented India at the 2016 U-19 World Cup in Bangladesh, secured his No-Objection Certificate in January. This shift sets the stage for his participation in the 2026-27 domestic campaign and his debut in the Delhi Premier League (DPL). By representing the North Delhi Strikers in the tournament's third edition, Dagar aims to re-establish his presence in the capital city.
Targeting an IPL Return
The primary driver behind this geographic move is a calculated attempt to return to the Indian Premier League. Dagar’s most recent stints in the T20 league included three appearances for Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023 and five matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2024. Having not featured in the tournament since, he views the DPL as a necessary shop window. Dagar holds a solid red-ball record, with 137 wickets across 51 First Class fixtures, but believes he needs a fresh platform to catch the attention of franchise scouts.
Navigating Local Dynamics
Despite his deep family ties to the city—including his uncle, legendary opener Virender Sehwag—Dagar’s inclusion in the DPL auction reportedly caused friction among some Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) members who viewed him as an outsider. Dagar has addressed these characterizations directly, emphasizing his birth and family heritage in Delhi. His focus remains on performance-based results to silence critics and assist his new team in the upcoming season.
Source: The Hindu — Sport
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