IPL 2019 | Shikhar Dhawan aims to start new season with a 'bang'

The Delhi Capitals (previously known as Delhi Daredevils) squad looks a formidable side on paper but whether or not they will manage to live up to the expectations is something that only time will tell. The likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and other youngsters impressed last season as the big names failed to get going. DC head coach Ricky Ponting will hope that his side can show the same determination they did towards the latter half of the last season as they gear up for an opening encounter against Mumbai Indians on Sunday.

There have been some interesting additions to the Delhi-based franchise this year, the most important one being the addition of Shikhar Dhawan at the top of the batting order. The Capitals opted to let go of three players - Vijay Shankar, Shahbaz Nadeem and Abhishek Sharma - to secure the services of the team India opener.

Dhawan has revealed that he cannot wait to get started with his new team and go all the way in the blue jersey in the upcoming 12th edition of the IPL.

"I am looking forward to starting the season with a bang. Feels good to be back home after a long time and when it comes to cricket, we have a very good bunch of boys, a balanced side. Things have changed and I feel that change is good. We have a great support staff and I think we are in the right mindset which is very important.

"The way we are preparing, we are doing a lot of hardwork as well as smart work and I believe we are going to do well this season," Dhawan told IANS reporters.

The left-hander also added that he was more than happy to share his experience with young skipper Shreyas Iyer and was looking forward to mentoring the other youngsters in the Delhi team.

"I feel very good and light. Shreyas captained the side last year and his bonding with Ricky Ponting (head coach) is great and it will only grow. As a senior player, I will share all my experience and whatever information I can provide to the team. I can always help my captain and give my inputs. It is on the skipper to decide how much he wants to use it.

"Off the field also, we will look at the opposition and their videos and get the details. On the field when I am batting with my partners, I will make sure the communication level is high and be aware of what the situation demands," Dhawan added.