'IPL franchises doesn't tolerate lack of results', Gilchrist’s warning for out-of-form Fraser-McGurk

Ex-Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist has cautioned that young Australian cricketer Jake Fraser-McGurk may risk himself getting benched by the Delhi Capitals if he fails to produce early in the IPL, citing the stern attitude of IPL franchises when players are in the middle of a form dip.

Fraser-McGurk, who was first introduced into the Capitals team as a replacement for injury last season, made a big impact with 330 runs in nine innings, of which four were fifties, on his maiden IPL season. His unbelievable strike rate of 234.04 was the second-best of the tournament. Nonetheless, for all his performances, the franchise did not retain him and instead recruited him for Rs 9 crores at the IPL auction with the 'Right to Match' card.

Since then, Fraser-McGurk's T20I performance has tapered off. Over his last 24 games, he has averaged 15.91 with a strike rate of 136.91 and made 382 runs.

"Delhi has exhibited immense trust in retaining him for the franchise, but it's important that he begins well," Gilchrist explained to Fox Cricket. "Based on what I know of the IPL, there isn't a lot of patience from franchises, owners, or coaches when the results aren't happening. If you start well in the tournament, it gives you time to get settled in and comfortable, but Jake understands that he will have to stamp his authority early on in order to establish a good tournament for himself and for the team as well."

Gilchrist also pointed out Fraser-McGurk's chance to excel on the flat surface and small boundaries of the Arun Jaitley Stadium, warning him not to strain himself too early. "The wicket he played on a year ago was extremely high-scoring, and there will be every chance for him there," remarked Gilchrist. "It will be down to him to keep his cool and cash in."

"I think he's as even-headed as anybody and just needs to keep that in check while going about doing his skills justice without getting too far ahead of himself," he added. "I'm always looking forward to seeing him play, and I just hope he can find a way to play some long innings this season."

The 18th season of the IPL will start on Saturday, with Kolkata Knight Riders, the defending champions, facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. The Delhi Capitals will make their opening game against the Lucknow Super Giants on March 24 at ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Vishakhapatnam.