The Delhi Capitals (DC) began their IPL 2025 campaign on a promising note with five wins in their first seven matches. However, a late-season slump saw them register only two more victories in the next seven games, finishing fifth and narrowly missing the playoffs. As the IPL 2026 mini auction approaches this December, the franchise is preparing for crucial retention and release decisions.

🏏 DC Retentions 2026: Likely Core Squad

Early reports suggest that Delhi Capitals are likely to retain 11 core players as they aim to strike a balance between experience and youth for the upcoming season. While nothing is officially confirmed, these names are expected to feature prominently in DC’s retention list.

Player Name	Role
Axar Patel (Captain)	All-Rounder
KL Rahul	Wicketkeeper-Batter
Tristan Stubbs	Batter
Abishek Porel	Wicketkeeper-Batter
Kuldeep Yadav	Bowler
Jake Fraser-McGurk	Batter
Mitchell Starc	Bowler
Sameer Rizvi	Batter
Ashutosh Sharma	Batter
Manvanth Kumar	Bowler
Darshan Nalkande	Bowler

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🔹 Key Retained Players & Why They Matter

1. Axar Patel (Captain & All-Rounder)
Axar Patel will continue to lead Delhi Capitals and remains their most dependable all-rounder. His left-arm spin has been crucial in the middle overs, and his composed batting under pressure has anchored DC’s innings several times.
Why retain him? Proven match-winner, sharp tactician, and reliable all-rounder.

2. KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
The experienced batter adds flexibility to DC’s lineup, capable of both anchoring and accelerating innings. His leadership experience and calm demeanor add immense value.
Why retain him? Reliable top-order anchor and seasoned wicketkeeper.

3. Tristan Stubbs (Batter)
The South African power-hitter has cemented his place as a middle-order finisher with his ability to clear boundaries under pressure.
Why retain him? Explosive finisher with consistent strike power.

4. Abishek Porel (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
The young and fearless keeper-batter impressed with his agility and aggressive stroke play, making him a solid investment for the future.
Why retain him? Rising domestic star with long-term potential.

5. Kuldeep Yadav (Bowler)
Kuldeep’s middle-over breakthroughs have often turned games in DC’s favor. His variations and control remain among the best in T20 cricket.
Why retain him? Proven match-winner and world-class spinner.

6. Jake Fraser-McGurk (Batter)
Despite an inconsistent 2025, the Australian’s striking rate and fearless intent make him a key figure in DC’s plans.
Why retain him? Explosive young batter capable of turning games single-handedly.

7. Mitchell Starc (Bowler)
The Australian speedster brings world-class experience and can deliver in both powerplay and death overs.
Why retain him? Elite pacer who brings balance and bite to the bowling attack.

8. Sameer Rizvi (Batter)
A young domestic star, Rizvi’s confident stroke play has made him one to watch for the future.
Why retain him? Promising Indian talent with high upside.

9. Ashutosh Sharma (Batter)
Known for his attacking style, Ashutosh’s quick cameos make him a valuable addition in pressure chases.
Why retain him? Aggressive middle-order option with fearless intent.

10. Manvanth Kumar (Bowler)
The young pacer adds depth to DC’s bowling department and has shown promise with both pace and discipline.
Why retain him? Emerging fast bowler with developmental potential.

11. Darshan Nalkande (Bowler)
A consistent performer, Nalkande’s control and ability to bowl crucial overs make him a trusted name.
Why retain him? Dependable seamer with valuable T20 experience.

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⚡ Expected Releases

While the official release list is yet to be announced, DC is expected to part ways with underperforming and high-cost overseas players to free up funds for strategic signings. Some bench players from the 2025 squad may also be released to create room for fresh all-round options and a backup spinner.

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🏆 Building for the Future

After going through a roller-coaster 2025 season, Delhi Capitals seem to have chosen stability and long-term thinking. With the vision of an Axar Patel-led set up alongside the experience of KL Rahul and firepower of Mitchell Starc, the franchise has the making of a strong core around which it can be built. The promise brought in by young Indian stars Abishek Porel, Sameer Rizvi, and Ashutosh Sharma ensures a bright future.

In the lead-up to the mini-auction in December 2025, the Capitals will want to strengthen their middle order, with a second quality spinner added to the mix. With all fingers pointed in the right way, Delhi Capitals could be one team biting hard at the opportunity to clinch their first IPL title in 2026.

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🔍 FAQs

Q1. Why is DC retaining only 11 players?
To maintain financial flexibility and invest strategically during the auction, DC plans to retain a compact core and explore new signings.

Q2. Will Axar Patel continue as captain?
Yes. Despite narrowly missing the playoffs, the management is confident in Axar’s leadership and consistency.

Q3. Is Mitchell Starc worth his salary?
Absolutely. His pace, swing, and wicket-taking ability justify his premium price tag.

Q4. Why are young Indian players crucial for DC?
They ensure cost-effectiveness, local depth, and long-term stability while allowing more overseas flexibility.

Q5. Does DC have a balanced squad?
The retained core ensures a strong mix of batting, bowling, and all-round strength, though the team may still target a middle-order stabilizer and another spinner at the auction.