Meg Lanning’s Struggles and Delhi Capitals' Quest for Consistency in WPL 2024

Meg Lanning, one of the most successful captains in women’s cricket, has often turned games around with strategic planning and calm execution under pressure. However, rare moments of visible frustration emerged during Delhi Capitals’ recent WPL 2024 match against Gujarat Giants in Bengaluru. Following her dismissal, Lanning momentarily lifted her bat toward the stumps before restraining herself, a reaction that hinted at underlying concerns about her form.

A Technical Deficiency in Lanning’s Game?

For the third time in five matches, Lanning fell to an incoming delivery—a strategy that teams are now consistently using against her. While an early dismissal by Shabnim Ismail’s pace in the opening game was understandable, similar struggles against domestic bowlers Kranti Goud and Kashvee Gautam raise questions about a possible technical vulnerability. Apart from her 69-run knock against UP Warriorz, Lanning has struggled to dictate terms, unlike her opening partner Shafali Verma, who has looked more fluent.

The challenge of playing in seam-friendly conditions in Bengaluru has contributed to her woes. Unlike Shafali—who took charge against Giants after an early reprieve—Lanning could not find her rhythm, managing just 3 runs off 13 balls.

Jess Jonassen’s Promotion and DC’s Middle-Order Woes

Delhi Capitals’ struggles aren’t limited to Lanning alone. Shafali has failed to convert her starts, and the middle order has lacked consistency, with only Jemimah Rodrigues delivering sporadic performances. To address this, DC experimented with their batting order, promoting all-rounder Jess Jonassen to No.3.

Jonassen justified the move with a quickfire 61* off 32 balls, ensuring DC comfortably chased down a 128-run target. Speaking on the strategy, she said,

"I had a conversation with JB [Jonathan Batty] earlier in the day. They wanted to inject some firepower after the powerplay in case of an early wicket. It was always part of the plan, and I’m pleased I could deliver."

The strategy paid off, but it remains to be seen if DC will continue with this approach in upcoming matches.

DC’s Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Despite securing three wins in five matches and leading the points table, Delhi Capitals are yet to produce a dominant all-round performance. Their only comprehensive win came against Giants, with different players stepping up at various times. The likes of Lanning, Annabel Sutherland, Marizanne Kapp, and Shafali are yet to showcase their peak performances, which could make DC a formidable force if they fire collectively.

As the tournament progresses, Delhi Capitals will aim to refine their batting and address inconsistencies. With experienced players like Lanning determined to overcome her struggles, and the squad possessing immense potential, the best of DC is yet to come. The upcoming net sessions could be just as crucial as the matches, with Lanning and her teammates working to fine-tune their skills for the remainder of WPL 2024.