Shane Watson, Ajit Agarkar part ways with Delhi Capitals after horrible IPL 2023

Ajit Agarkar and Shane Watson (Source - Twitter)

Former legendary Australia allrounder Shane Watson and former Indian fast bowler Ajit Agarkar have parted ways with Delhi Capitals (DC). Australian veteran batter David Warner led the team in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in Rishabh Pant’s absence.

DC took to Twitter and announced the departure of Agarkar and Watson. Both were in a contract with the franchise as assistant coaches. However, that didn’t work for the team. Agarkar is likely to become the chief selector of the Indian cricket team, while Watson will reportedly join Chennai Super Kings (CSK) campaign.

"You’ll always have a place to call home here; thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours," Delhi Capitals' Twitter statement read.

Ponting and Ganguly to continue with DC

Additionally, it appears like Ricky Ponting and Sourav Ganguly will both continue in their existing positions. Ponting has been the team's head coach since 2018, and Ganguly has returned as the director of cricket before the IPL 2023. However, DC might try a new coaching staff after an embarrassing 16th edition of the league. DC bowling coach James Hopes is also likely to continue with the franchise.

“The franchise doesn’t intend to bring any replacement coaches for Watson and Hopes. It’s more about reducing support staff to have more clarity. Amre has done well in getting this franchise a good core of youngsters since 2015. He will be given a free hand to rebuild the side. Ponting and Amre have been common factors when Capitals did well between 2019 and 2022,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI.

The Delhi Capitals lost their first five games this season. They struggled greatly to bounce back from the season's beginning and compete for a position in the knockout phase. The Capitals were eighth in the standings with five wins and nine losses. This year's IPL saw SRH finish last. In the Capitals' strongest campaign to date, the 2020 IPL, they made the championship game.