In a significant move that has set the stage for IPL 2025, Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has reportedly signed with the Delhi Capitals, stepping in as a replacement for England's Harry Brook. The decision comes as Brook has chosen to prioritize his international commitments, withdrawing from the tournament. Rumors had been swirling around Shanaka's involvement, but his appearance at the Delhi Capitals training camp recently made it all the more concrete.
On June 19, 2025, Shanaka was spotted at the DC training facility, working out alongside teammates T Natarajan and Dushmantha Chameera. This sighting has fans buzzing with excitement, especially since it appears Shanaka will be integrating seamlessly into the squad just days before the season begins.
Harry Brook, who was acquired by the Delhi Capitals for a significant INR 6.25 crore, has now pulled out for the second consecutive season. Despite a promising start, which included playing a vital role in the team's plans, Brook's focus has shifted, triggered by a desire to commit more fully to his international career. Brook's previous engagement with the team dates back to the IPL 2024 auctions, where the Capitals secured him for INR 4 crore, prior to his withdrawal after a personal tragedy.
Compounding the disappointment for the Capitals, recent updates indicate that Brook now faces a two-year ban from the IPL due to new regulations regarding player absences. This has paved the way for Shanaka, who has garnered attention for his impressive performance during the ILT20 2025, where he was a key figure in the title-winning squad for the Dubai Capitals, showcasing his skills and capability to contribute significantly at the IPL level.
Prior to joining the Delhi Capitals, Shanaka had modest IPL experience, playing three matches for the Gujarat Titans in 2023, where he only managed to score 26 runs. However, his overall T20 statistics tell a different story. Over his career, Shanaka has accumulated nearly 4,500 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 142.45 across 243 T20 matches. He has clocked in three centuries and 16 fifties, alongside taking 91 wickets, illustrating his all-round capabilities.
Visibly excited about his new endeavor, Shanaka stated, "I’m excited to join Delhi Capitals and look forward to contributing to the team." His presence is expected to bring not just stability to the squad but also experience as the Delhi Capitals prepare to make a run for the championship.
The Capitals will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against the Lucknow Super Giants in Visakhapatnam on March 24. Following a sixth-place finish last season, where they ended with 14 points, the team is looking to turn the tide and re-establish itself as a powerhouse in the league.
For the 2025 season, the Delhi Capitals under the leadership of Axar Patel aim to utilize their comprehensive roster filled with dynamic players. Aside from Shanaka, the squad includes T Natarajan and Dushmantha Chameera, both of whom are also making their debuts in the IPL this year. Their acquisitions during the recent auction included notable investments like Natarajan, who commanded a price tag of INR 10.75 crore.
While other teams are also ramping up their strategies, the upcoming season promises thrilling matchups as the Capitals aim to gain ground on rivals that include powerhouse teams like the Chennai Super Kings and the Mumbai Indians.
As the season approaches, eyes will be on the performances of the rest of the Sri Lankan players in the league, following the auction where several were bought at premium prices. Notable acquisitions include Nuwan Thushara for INR 1.6 crore by Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kamindu Mendis for INR 75 lakhs by Sunrisers Hyderabad. The evolving dynamics within the IPL are shaping a fascinating narrative, one that is sure to be followed closely by fans and analysts alike as they strategize their way through this enthralling tournament.
Undoubtedly, this IPL season is shaping up to be full of surprises, and the addition of players like Dasun Shanaka signals a strong commitment from the Delhi Capitals to push for success, knowing that every performance, every match, counts in the quest for the championship title.
