Even though Brook is an out-and-out batter he could be replaced by Sri Lankan all-rounder, Dasun Shanaka. The Capitals are yet to announce a replacement for Brook but the recent events point towards Shanaka getting the nod ahead of other overseas stars.
He has a great record in T20 cricket. In 243 games in the format, Shanaka has made more than 4,400 runs at a strike rate of more than 140. While he averages in the mid-20s, the 33-year-old could be a great 15-20 ball player for the Capitals.
With the ball in hand though, Shanaka has been pretty average. In 129 T20 innings, he has managed to pick up only 91 wickets. He has a tendency to be pretty expensive as well and has an economy of 8.84 runs per over. His bowling could go for a lot of runs if the surface at the Arun Jaitley Stadium is similar to the one from the previous year.
Three overseas players will most definitely start in the playing XI for DC. Faf du Plessis who was named the vice-captain will open the innings while his countryman, Tristan Stubbs would feature in the middle-order. Mitchell Starc will lead the bowling attack and could be the third overseas pick.
The competition for the fourth overseas pick could be fierce with Jake Fraser McGurk already in the fray. However, if Dasun Shanaka is indeed named the replacement he could pip the young Aussie batter.
Shanaka offers a great deal of balance to the team and could partner up with skipper, Axar Patel to form a great all-round duo. The Capitals currently have an opening in the lower-middle order batting department and could very well use Shanaka's bowling as well when they travel to grounds with slower pitches.
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