QdK: Delhi not in IPL as cannon fodder

India

Delhi Daredevils opener Quinton de Kock was his team's leading run-getter in this year's edition, and says that even though they failed to reach the play-offs they're  a team made up of proper young talent.

Delhi lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday, in a game that was winner takes all for a spot in the play offs, and De Kock made 60 runs in vain. But he feels that 2017 will be the true evidence of their growth.

Delhi were dire last season, so to make it to the final day of league play this time was a vast improvement, with Indian youngsters Karun Nair and Risbah Pant also putting in good efforts.

De Kock said: "Other people have now learnt that they can't take us too lightly, especially as youngsters.

"We've put up a scrap always, as young guys, we're not just here to keep throwing half-volleys to superstars. We're here to compete.

"We've tried to make a name for ourselves for next year and years to come. Hopefully, we won't be taken for granted in the future."

As for his own development, De Kock said he'd learned a lot from his time in India, one of his more successful places to play internationally as well, but was eager to keep developing.

He added: "I'm still learning. I always go out there, trying to do the best I can. Unfortunately, I can't do it all the time. I still have quite a bit to learn about my own game.

"The tournament wasn't too bad. This is the most that I've played in the IPL for one season. This is my fourth and I think I missed only one game.

"I've learnt how to play spin better. I haven't had many opportunities in T20 to play spin, quality spin also… playing around different conditions.

"I know now what the wickets are about and want to come back next year,"

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