Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani said it was only natural for Auqib Nabi to feel nervous in his first IPL outing, but backed the young pacer to play a key role for the side going forward.
Speaking ahead of Delhi’s clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Badani stressed that debut nerves are part and parcel of stepping onto a stage like the IPL.
“Everyone has nerves in the first game. I felt he had similar nerves in the first game,” Badani said.
However, the coach was quick to underline that the franchise’s belief in Nabi goes beyond just one outing. He highlighted the youngster’s temperament as a major factor behind Delhi’s decision to back him strongly.
“I have seen him be consistent with whatever has happened with him, be it good or bad. He has stayed the same. He has maintained equilibrium,” Badani said.
In addition to his mindset, Badani pointed to Nabi’s discipline with the ball, particularly his ability to consistently hit the right areas.
“The other is that he has been consistent with his line and length. He is somebody who has the skill set to play at a higher level,” he added.
With both temperament and control working in his favour, Badani believes it is only a matter of time before Nabi settles in.
“But I think he is somebody who will do well for us,” he said.
Delhi Capitals will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday at Chinnaswamy Stadium.
