Delhi Capitals (DC) have the chance to create history on Wednesday evening by becoming only the third franchise after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) to qualify for back-to-back finals when they face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the second qualifier of the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL).

DC have had a phenomenal campaign so far having finished first in the league stage with a record of 10 wins in 14 games. However, a defeat to CSK from the brink of victory in the first qualifier on Sunday has put a massive blow to their chances of lifting their maiden IPL trophy. 

In order to lift the spirits of his team, DC head Ricky Ponting gave an emotionally charged speech to his team ahead of the big clash against KKR in Sharjah. Ponting pointed out the team’s growth in recent years and made a bold claim saying he believes they can become the league champions this season. 

Ponting said, “I’ve been in Delhi for three years. First year I was here, we finished last. Two years ago, we finished third and last year we finished second. I think we can win the IPL, as simple as that. You know, I might go well on record saying that because that’s what I am here for. That’s what the players are here for.”

The former Australian captain also claimed that the franchise has come a long way in the last two years and credited the group of players for their efforts in transforming the team’s fortunes. 

“This is a different Delhi than it was two years ago. And the reason that it is, is because what all you guys have brought to this franchise. We adhere to those four words we have said – Attitude, Effort, Commitment and Care, will be better,” said Ponting. 

He added, “Every great team I’ve been around, that I’ve coached or I’ve played in have shown genuine care for one another. The sign of a great team is not about one or two players, it’s about the eleven players on the field and they all chip in to do what they need to when the team needs them to do it the most.”