Abhishek Nayar: “We Wanted Shikha’s Experience and Deepti Back Through RTM”

Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar shed light on the team’s auction strategy, revealing that the management was keen on bringing back both Shikha Pandey and Deepti Sharma through the Right-to-Match (RTM) option, placing strong emphasis on their experience, versatility, and impact in pressure situations. Nayar explained that Shikha’s depth of knowledge, calmness under fire, and ability to deliver breakthroughs with the new ball made her an invaluable asset—particularly in a format where seasoned fast bowlers who can swing the ball and execute variations at the death are rare. At the same time, the team viewed Deepti as central to their balance, given her dual role as a reliable middle-order batter and a crafty off-spinner who can control the game in the middle overs. Nayar noted that Deepti’s leadership qualities, tactical understanding, and adaptability across phases were attributes the franchise didn’t want to lose, especially with several younger players in the squad still finding their feet. He emphasised that the RTM strategy wasn’t merely about retaining familiar names but about preserving the core structure that had brought stability and identity to the team. By targeting Shikha’s experience and ensuring Deepti’s return, the franchise aimed to maintain continuity while still allowing space for new talent to flourish around a strong, dependable nucleus.

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