Dev Chaudhary Breaks Silence on DPL 2026 Selection Controversy, Batting Technique, and Online Criticism
New Delhi Tigers' Dev Chaudhary, 22, has finally addressed the DPL 2026 selection controversy, his unorthodox batting technique, and intense online criticism. The cricketer, whose limited senior record and unusual style sparked 'fraud' allegations, maintains his approach works. His debut on August 15 saw a duck, followed by 16 runs in his second match.
New Delhi Tigers opener Dev Chaudhary, a 22-year-old cricketer at the centre of a swirling controversy in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026, has finally broken his silence. Chaudhary addressed questions surrounding his selection, his unconventional batting technique, and the deluge of online criticism he has faced during the ongoing tournament. DDCA to Review Tournament Rules Amid Dev Chaudhary DPL 2026 Selection Controversy.
Dev Chaudhary In Tell-All Interview
Chaudhary's inclusion in the New Delhi Tigers squad for DPL 2026 has been heavily scrutinised due to a limited publicly available senior-level cricketing record prior to the tournament. This perceived lack of experience has led to allegations of 'selection fraud' and claims of political or wealthy-family backing on social media platforms.
Beyond selection, Chaudhary's batting technique has become a major talking point. Videos showcasing his 'unorthodox' and 'unusual' grip and stance have gone viral, drawing comparisons to Australian star Steve Smith but, critically, failing to yield similar results.
Speaking in a recent interview to Shashwat on The Unfiltered Cricket Launda YouTube channel, Chaudhary defended his batting style and dismissed suggestions that his selection in DPL 2026 was outside the rules and regulations lait out by DDCA. 'It doesn't matter how you hold the bat; I've always held it the way I do, and it has always worked for me,' Chaudhary said when asked about his technique.
Chaudhary clarified his eligibility by stating that he represented Sporting Club in the DDCA T20 League in 2025. Having featured in seven matches and scored 56 runs, he maintained that he met all official criteria to enter the DPL player auction, just like any other eligible candidate. DPL 2026: How Many Matches Has Dev Chaudhary Played for New Delhi Tigers?
Social Media Backlash
Amid severe social media scrutiny, where critics questioned his technique and fielding, with some labelling him a 'fraud';Chaudhary dismissed the backlash. The young batter maintained that online opinions do not affect him, describing the allegations and conspiracy theories surrounding his selection as baseless lies. Adding another layer to the narrative, Chaudhary is currently coached by Rajkumar Sharma, widely known as Virat Kohli's childhood coach, who heads the New Delhi Tigers.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 26, 2026 06:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).