Table of Contents
Delhi Capitals (DC) have moved to strengthen their squad for the crucial final phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, announcing the signing of Afghanistan’s promising young batter, Sediqullah Atal. The 23-year-old left-hander joins the Capitals as a replacement for England’s Harry Brook, who has withdrawn from the tournament citing personal reasons.
The announcement sees Atal joining the Delhi franchise for his base price of INR 1.25 crore. His inclusion comes at a vital time for the Capitals, who are locked in a tight battle for a playoff spot. After a stellar start to the season with four consecutive victories, the team has experienced a dip in form and currently sits in fifth place on the points table with 13 points from 11 matches, desperately needing wins to secure a top-four finish.
Harry Brook opted out of IPL 2025 before the start of the season
Brook’s departure marks his second consecutive withdrawal from the IPL, a situation that carries the risk of a potential two-season ban under the league’s regulations. While his absence is a setback, the Capitals management is hopeful that Atal’s arrival will provide a much-needed boost and fresh impetus to their batting lineup.
Atal brings an impressive T20 pedigree despite his young age. In 49 T20 matches so far, he has accumulated 1,507 runs at a healthy average of 34.25 and a striking strike rate of 131.27. His record includes 13 half-centuries, highlighting his consistency and ability to play significant innings. This will be Atal’s maiden appearance in the IPL, but he is not new to franchise cricket, having previously featured in the SA20 league. He also boasts international experience, representing Afghanistan in one Test, nine One Day Internationals, and nine T20 Internationals.
Also READ: IPL 2025 – Rajasthan Royals sign South African prodigy as replacement for injured Nitish Rana
Delhi Captains’ new recruit gained recognition in Kabul Premier League
Atal first gained widespread recognition for his explosive batting during the Kabul Premier League in 2023, where he achieved the remarkable feat of smashing 48 runs in a single over. He finished that memorable innings unbeaten on 118 off just 56 balls and went on to score a century in the tournament final. His impressive form continued as he topped the run-scoring charts at the 2024 ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup, amassing 368 runs in five matches. Earlier this year, he further enhanced his reputation as a player for the big occasion with a heroic knock of 85 against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy. His aggressive stroke play and ability to perform under pressure have earned him praise from coaches and commentators.
Atal joins the Capitals ahead of their crucial upcoming fixture against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Dharamsala. As Delhi push for a playoff spot, the addition of the dynamic Afghan batter could prove to be a pivotal move in the business end of IPL 2025.
Also READ – IPL 2025: PBKS vs DC, Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match? | Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals
