Badani reveals T Natarajan’s absence from IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals (DC) had a fantastic start to IPL 2025 and, at one stage, looked like one of the favourites not only to reach the playoffs but also to qualify for Qualifier 1. However, a dip in form in the latter part of the season saw them finish in fifth place. 

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They ended with 15 points from 14 games and a net run rate of +0.011, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot. This left DC fans disappointed, and many raised questions about the absence of star pacer T Natarajan from most of the matches. 

DC had acquired Natarajan for INR 10.75 crore in the mega auction, and considering the price tag, it was expected that the franchise would feature him regularly in the playing XI. But he played only two matches throughout the season, bowled just three overs, and went wicketless. 

Now, current DC coach and former Team India cricketer Hemang Badani, who is currently doing commentary in the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), has revealed the reason behind Natarajan’s limited appearances. During a commentary stint, he stated that the pacer was still recovering from injury and had not reached full match fitness. 

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"Why would we spend ₹11 crore on a player & bench him? We bought him specifically for the middle & end overs. Unfortunately, Natarajan wasn’t fully fit after returning from injury – remained injured throughout the season, that’s why he didn’t play," Badani said. 

Natarajan is now playing for Tiruppur Tamizhans in the ongoing TNPL. However, they began their season with a loss against Chepauk Super Gillies. In that game, Natarajan bowled only two overs, went wicketless, and conceded 26 runs. 

Injuries have played a major role in Natarajan’s career and are one of the key reasons behind his inconsistency and lack of a comeback to the Indian national team. He has played seven international matches across all three formats. 

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But his last appearance in an India jersey was in 2021. Since then, injuries and inconsistent performances have kept him out of the Team India selectors' radar. Natarajan is expected to be in action again on 8 June against Dindigul Dragons in Coimbatore.

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