The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The season began with great anticipation, but the focus quickly shifted from the action on the field to the team selection controversy. Delhi Capitals (DC) faced criticism for leaving Prithvi Shaw in the first clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Expected to make a strong comeback this season, fans were surprised and disappointed that the young player was included neither in the playing XI nor among the effective substitutes.
Delhi Capitals’ move to ignore Prithvi Shaw is raising eyebrows
After winning the toss at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, the DC captain Akhar Patel he chose the bowl first. Speaking at the shootout, Akhar confirmed that Sri Lanka had been beaten Pathum Nissanka Will make his IPL debut and open the innings with him KL Rahul. While the inclusion of Nissanka added freshness to the lineup, the main point of discussion was Shaw’s absence.
Interestingly, Akhar did not give any explanation for the show’s omission, leaving fans and experts to speculate on the reasons behind the decision. Given Shaw’s reputation as an aggressive high-flyer and his return to the franchise this season, expectations were high for him to perform prominently.
Fans are expressing their disappointment at Shaw’s ouster
As soon as the team sheets were announced, fans took to social media platforms to express their frustration. Many questioned the team management’s decision to ignore a player known for his explosive starts, especially in a format like T20 cricket where powerplay performances often set the tone.
Several users have pointed out that Shaw’s exclusion from even the list of impact substitutes points to deeper concerns – be it form, fitness or team strategy. Others argued that backing a proven IPL performer like Shaw in the opening game could give DC a more aggressive edge at the top.
The backlash reflects a strong connection with fans who have followed Sean’s journey closely and are eager to see him make a statement this season.
Here’s how the fans reacted:
Pathum Nissanka ahead of Prithvi Shaw ….?? No seriously 😦 What’s up with Delhi
— Jerry in Depression 🍑🏳️🌈🚩 (@Retired_Fan69) April 1, 2026
When Starc returns, opener Prithvi Shaw will save their season and career https://t.co/KZjnKCO4TT
— Tingus Paint (@bent_copper) April 1, 2026
prithvi shaw 💔
— rojojabbit (@mxn10_) April 1, 2026
Prithvi Shaw is not even under the influence😭😭😭 https://t.co/NBLqsMHjLd
— GK (@FCBxRCB) April 1, 2026
After a few days, it is possible to see justice for Prithvi Shaw as well.
— Navkaar.jain (@navkaarrjain20) April 1, 2026
DELHI CAPITAL MISTAKES
– Picking Nissanka over Prithvi Shaw
– Only Lungi Ngidi in the playing XI
– D’mantha Chameera is out
– Bowling is weakening#ipl2026 #DCVSLSG pic.twitter.com/ufln3d0uUu— Raja (@_raja_kumar) April 1, 2026
Prithvi Shaw’s absence from this squad is disappointing.
— Chirag Wakaskar (@chiragwakaskar) April 1, 2026
Shocking that not a single soul wants to take a chance on Prithvi Shaw
— Pranav Mohan Lal (@pranavlal21) April 1, 2026
Where is prince prithvi show😢
— ‘ (@defendkohly18) April 1, 2026
Also WATCH: LSG captain Rishabh Pant presents a bat to Ayush Badoni with a funny warning
Playing XI from both sides
Delhi Capitals fielded a balanced XI featuring a mix of experience and youth. Along with Rahul and Nissanka, the players like David Miller and Tristan Stubbs It was expected to strengthen the middle order while the bowling attack included the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and T Natarajan.
On the other hand, Lucknow Super Giants lead the way Rishabh pantsalso made notable selection calls. Despite having a strong squad, it left out promising names like LSG Mayank Yadav and Arjun Tendulkar from Game 11, showing the depth and competition within the squad.
Capitals of Delhi: KL Rahul (week), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Vipraj Nigam, Axar Patel (captain), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar.
Impact Subs: Ashutosh Sharma, Auqib Nabi, Sameer Rizvi, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair.
Lucknow Super Giants: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (capt / hk), Ayush Badoni, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mukul Chowdhary, Mohsin Khan, Mohammed Shami, Anrich Nortje, Prince Yadav.
Effects Subs: Digvesh Rathi, Avesh Khan, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Akshat Raghuvanshi.
