Delhi Capitals IPL Team 2025: The Delhi Capitals (DC) are gearing up for an exciting 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, showcasing a revamped squad that reflects a fine balance between experience, youthful energy, and calculated investments. With significant player retentions and strategic acquisitions during the recent mega auction, DC is aiming to make a strong statement this year.
If you’re a cricket enthusiast, a budding player, or someone professionally following the IPL, this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about DC’s retained players, auction highlights, and game plan for IPL 2025.
Delhi Capitals IPL Team 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Retained Players | Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel |
| Biggest Auction Buy | KL Rahul (₹14 crore) |
| Star International Signing | Mitchell Starc (₹11.75 crore) |
| Captaincy | KL Rahul and Axar Patel (Dual captaincy model) |
| Notable Release | Rishabh Pant (signed by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore) |
| Team Coach | Ricky Ponting |
| Official Team Website | Delhi Capitals |
The Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 squad demonstrates a careful mix of tactical thinking and long-term planning. With leaders like KL Rahul and Axar Patel at the helm, a strong bowling lineup led by Mitchell Starc, and young talents like Jake Fraser-McGurk, DC has positioned itself as a strong contender for the IPL 2025 title.
Their dual captaincy model, emphasis on player development, and balanced team composition could finally lead them to their long-awaited IPL triumph.
Retained Players for IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals have retained four key players who form the core of their squad. Retaining these players reflects DC’s confidence in their potential and consistency.
1. Axar Patel – The Dependable All-rounder
Axar Patel has been a key performer for DC with his ability to contribute both with the bat and ball. Retained for ₹16.5 crore, Axar’s leadership potential is also evident as he takes on the co-captaincy role.
2. Kuldeep Yadav – A Spin Wizard
Kuldeep Yadav has become one of the most reliable spinners in T20 cricket. Retained for ₹13.25 crore, his knack for breaking partnerships will be pivotal for DC in IPL 2025.
3. Tristan Stubbs – Rising Star
This South African powerhouse has already shown glimpses of brilliance in his IPL stint. Retained for ₹10 crore, Stubbs is a reliable option for DC in the middle order.
4. Abishek Porel – A Promising Talent
A relatively new face, Abishek Porel is being nurtured as DC’s future wicketkeeper-batter. Retained for ₹4 crore, he’s expected to gain more exposure this season.
Auction Picks – Smart Investments by DC
The IPL 2025 Mega Auction brought many surprises, and DC used their budget wisely to build a well-rounded team.
KL Rahul – The Star Signing (₹14 crore)
KL Rahul was DC’s marquee signing, bringing immense batting skill and experience as a leader. His ability to score consistently at the top makes him a game-changer.
Mitchell Starc – The Bowling Ace (₹11.75 crore)
DC bolstered their bowling attack with Starc’s signing. Known for his devastating pace and precision, Starc is expected to lead the bowling unit.
Depth in Batting
- Harry Brook (₹6.25 crore): An aggressive middle-order batsman with international experience.
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (₹9 crore): A versatile batter who strengthens DC’s bench strength.
T. Natarajan – Master of Death Overs
Natarajan, at ₹1.28 crore, adds the ability to bowl in pressure situations. His yorkers are a vital asset for the team.
Other Auction Picks
- Faf du Plessis (₹2 crore): Adds a wealth of experience and leadership.
- Karun Nair (₹50 lakh): A seasoned batter who provides depth.
- Young talents like Ashutosh Sharma (₹3.8 crore) and Ajay Mandal (₹30 lakh) were also picked to create a balance of youth and experience.
What Sets Delhi Capitals Apart in IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals have adopted a holistic approach this season, focusing on the following:
Balanced Leadership – The Dual Captaincy Model
In a unique move, DC has introduced a dual captaincy strategy, with KL Rahul and Axar Patel sharing leadership duties. This approach aims to leverage both players’ strengths—Rahul’s tactical acumen and Axar’s on-field decision-making.
Strengthened Bowling Attack
With the addition of Mitchell Starc, T. Natarajan, and Kuldeep Yadav, DC’s bowling unit now has a mix of pace and spin, making it one of the strongest in the tournament.
Focus on Young Talent
Players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, Abishek Porel, and Ashutosh Sharma reflect DC’s investment in the future, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent.
NFL Team Stats Defense Rankings – Points Per Game
Potential Starting XI for IPL 2025
Here’s a predicted starting lineup based on current signings and strategies:
- KL Rahul (Captain, Opener)
- Faf du Plessis (Opener)
- Harry Brook (Middle-order)
- Tristan Stubbs (Finisher)
- Axar Patel (All-rounder, Co-captain)
- Abishek Porel (Wicketkeeper)
- Mitchell Starc (Bowler)
- Kuldeep Yadav (Bowler)
- T. Natarajan (Bowler)
- Ashutosh Sharma (All-rounder)
- Mohit Sharma/Darshan Nalkande (Bowler)
FAQs On Retained Players for IPL 2025
Q1: Who are DC’s retained players for IPL 2025?
DC retained Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, and Abishek Porel.
Q2: Who was DC’s most expensive signing in the auction?
KL Rahul was signed for ₹14 crore, making him the most expensive buy for DC in IPL 2025.
Q3: Why did DC release Rishabh Pant?
Rishabh Pant was released to explore new team strategies. He was later picked by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore.
Q4: Who are DC’s international players for IPL 2025?
Key international players include Mitchell Starc, Harry Brook, Tristan Stubbs, and Jake Fraser-McGurk.
Q5: What is the dual captaincy model?
Under the dual captaincy model, KL Rahul and Axar Patel will share leadership responsibilities for strategic flexibility.
