IPL 2018: Gautam Gambhir steps down, Shreyas Iyer appointed captain for DD

Gautam Gambhir has stepped down as Delhi Daredevils' captain with immediate effect. Shreyas Iyer will replace him as skipper of the franchise for the rest of the season. The decision was made public by the Delhi franchise during a live press conference that included Gambhir, along with coach Ricky Ponting, owner Hemant Dua, and newly-appointed captain Shreyas Iyer.

A visibly disappointed Gambhir said that he was hoping for a turnaround for the team with the change of guard, as has been the case with other franchises before.

"I take full responsibility for the position we are in. And looking at the position, I have decided to step down as captain. Shreyas Iyer will take over from me. I still feel we have the team to turn things around this".

Ricky Ponting, head coach of the Daredevils, said that he was completely behind Gambhir's decision:

"Being the leader of the team, he (Gambhir) put his hand up and made the tough decision. I completely endorse (Shreyas) Iyer as captain. He has a huge future in the game and for the Daredevils as well. I would also like to congratulate Gautam on the decision".

"As tough as it might be, it gives us a fresh start to perform from hereon. We can start fresh and look to make an impact. Looking forward to seeing how Shreyas does".

Gambhir returned to the Delhi Daredevils setup after eight years, having previously played for the franchise from 2008-2010. From 2011 until 2017, he was the skipper of the Kolkata Knight Riders, helping them win two titles in 2012 and 2014.

However, the return to his hometown did not go as expected, with the side struggling at the bottom of the table currently, with one win in six games.

They play their next game against the Kolkata Knight Riders on April 27 at the Feroz Shah Kotla.