Warner's sensational debut has Delhi Daredevils rejoicing

New Delhi, Jan 12 (IANS) David Warner's sensational debut for Australia has sent a wave of jubilation among his teammates at the Delhi Daredevils.

The Delhi-based Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise pulled off a coup by signing the 22-year-old New South Wales star last month. The southpaw scored a brilliant 89 off just 43 deliveries with seven fours and six sixes and set up a 52-run win for Australia over South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket ground Sunday. He was adjudged the Man of the Match as he became the first player since 1877 to play for Australia without making a first-class debut.

Former India pace bowler T.A. Sekar, Vice-President GMR Sports, who run the franchise Delhi Daredevils expressed joy at the success of his latest recruit. 'The moment I saw him at the Emerging Players tournament, I realised he has a huge potential and particularly for Twenty20 format. Our coach, Greg Shipperd, also has a very high regard for David's talent and we quickly decided to get him into our side.'

Warner's signing up with Daredevils last month was among the first sign-ups for the second season of IPL.

'His form in the days leading up to his signing up with Delhi Daredevils vindicated our view of him and since then he has gone from strength to strength. And now he could soon find a place in the national side in other formats,' said Sekar.

'We look forward to having him in Delhi alongside our other explosive stars like Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir. The stage is now set for an exciting second season of IPL,' added Sekar.