The Delhi Capitals (DC), previously known as the Delhi Daredevils, have been a consistent presence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception in 2008. Despite being one of the founding teams, their journey in the league has been a mix of highs and lows.
Under the leadership of young talents like captain Shreyas Iyer and star wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, Delhi Capitals reached their first-ever final in 2020, where they fell short against the Mumbai Indians.
Retained core players
Ahead of the mega auction, the Delhi Capitals have secured key players, retaining the spin-bowling duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, along with South African power-hitter Tristan Stubbs. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batsman Abishek Porel stands out as the lone uncapped player in their list of retentions.
As per the Player Regulations issued by the IPL Governing Council, franchises could retain up to six players from their existing squad—comprising a maximum of five capped players and two uncapped players—via retention or the Right to Match (RTM) option during the auction.
Here's a breakdown of the retained players and their respective costs:
Axar Patel: Retained for Rs 16.50 Crore
Kuldeep Yadav: Retained for Rs 13.25 crore
Tristan Stubbs: Retained for Rs 10 crore
Abishek Porel: Retained for Rs 4 crore
Remaining purse, auction strategy and key slots to fill
With Rs 73 crore remaining in their auction purse, Delhi Capitals will focus on addressing critical areas to rebuild their squad. Strengthening both the batting and bowling departments will be a priority. The availability of two RTM cards provide them with added flexibility to reacquire a former player who might attract significant bids.
Post-retention, DC have between 14 and 21 slots to fill in their squad.
Key areas of focus include bolstering their batting lineup and reinforcing the pace attack to complement the spin duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Securing impactful batters and pacers will be essential to balance the team and enhance their chances in the upcoming season.
Delhi Capitals remaining purse: Rs. 73 crore
Delhi Capitals Right to Match cards available: 2
Delhi Capitals players retained: Axar Patel (Rs 16.50 Crore), Kuldeep Yadav (Rs 13.25 crore), Tristan Stubbs (Rs 10 crore), Abhishek Porel (Rs 4 crore).
Delhi Capitals slots remaining:
Minimum: 14 players
Maximum: 21 players
Overseas: 7 players
