Delhi Capitals (DC) could make several key changes to their squad ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, which is expected to be held between December 13-15, 2025. All franchises must submit their retention lists by November 15, 2025.
After another season of mixed performances, DC might release a few players to balance their squad, manage salary space, and fix weak areas like middle-order consistency and bowling depth.
Why Delhi Capitals Might Make Changes
Even though Delhi Capitals had experienced players and very promising youngsters, they lacked balance in batting and death bowling. Capitals have struggled to find the right combination in the past two IPL seasons. With the 2026 season being important for rebuilding, DC might release underperforming, high-cost injury-prone players to create space for new talent and improve their team stability.
Possible Players DC Could Release
1. Faf du Plessis (South Africa – Batter)
The veteran South African batter was brought in for experience and leadership, but his strike rate and consistency dipped in IPL 2025. With DC looking to build a younger, more aggressive batting core, releasing Faf could free up a major overseas slot and salary space. His experience remains valuable, but DC might prefer a long-term Indian top-order option.
2. Jake Fraser-McGurk (Australia – Batter)
Jake Fraser-McGurk made a very strong impact with his early IPL performances in 2024, but his form dipped in IPL 2025. His aggressive batting often led to early dismissals, putting pressure on the middle order. Delhi Capitals will be looking for more consistent top-order batter, the franchise might release him if they find a more consistent overseas batter at auction.
3. T. Natarajan (India – Left-arm Pacer)
Natarajan is an experienced Indian pacer, lately he has struggled with rhythm and injuries in recent seasons. With Mukesh Kumar and Mohit Sharma offering similar bowling styles, DC might think about releasing Natarajan to bring in a younger and fitter left-arm pacer. His high base price and limited availability due to fitness concerns could also influence the decision.
4. Dushmantha Chameera (Sri Lanka – Fast Bowler)
Chameera was picked to reinforce DC’s pace attack but he couldn’t make a major impact due to his fitness and form issues. The franchise may release him and look for another overseas pacer who can consistently bowl at the death overs. His release would also help DC free up an overseas spot for a more flexible all-rounder.
Also read: IPL 2026 Auction: 5 Players Gujarat Titans May Release Ahead of Mini Auction
Other Players Under Review
Players like Ripal Patel, Lalit Yadav, and Chetan Sakariya could also face uncertainty depending on DC’s overall strategy. Their performances in domestic tournaments before November could decide whether they stay or go.
What Delhi Capitals Might Target at the Auction
If DC release experienced names like Faf du Plessis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, or Natarajan, the franchise will likely:
- Target a reliable Indian top-order batter to support KL Rahul or Porel.
- Strengthen death bowling with a proven pacer who can deliver under pressure.
- Add a power-hitting all-rounder who can finish matches and balance the team’s lower order.
- Scout young domestic pacers and uncapped Indian batters who impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and domestic T20 leagues.
Key Dates for Fans
- Retention Deadline: November 15, 2025
- Mini-Auction Window: December 13-15, 2025 (expected)
- Official Released Players List: Mid-November 2025
Delhi Capitals are known for their bold moves, from backing young talents to making surprise trades. With the IPL 2026 mini-auction coming closer, the management could make tough calls to reshape the squad.
Players like Faf du Plessis, Fraser-McGurk, Natarajan, and Chameera might be on the release radar, depending on team balance, fitness, and trade activity. Fans can expect a refreshed Delhi Capitals lineup for IPL 2026, aiming for a stronger, more consistent performance after seasons of near misses.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
