The Capitals, looking to strengthen their middle order, fast bowling and all-round capabilities, are expected to aggressively pursue a mix of proven internationals and strong domestic talents. Here’s a look at some high-value players that the Delhi Capitals could target at auction, including a snapshot of their recent T20 performances in 2025.
5 players Delhi Capitals can opt for in the IPL 2026 mini-auction
1) Steve Smith (foreign hitter)
- Role: Top/middle order anchor and tactical leader
Steve Smith offers tremendous value as a world-class accumulator and strategic voice. Given DC’s need for an experienced batsman who can anchor the innings and bat through the middle overs, Smith’s consistency and ability to adapt to varying pitches make him an ideal candidate.
His consistent entrenchment (demonstrated by his high 2025 average) would provide much-needed stability to the top four, allowing the aggressive players around him to express themselves freely. Securing Smith would utilize a crucial overseas slot for a top performer.
2) Sarfaraz Khan (Indian batsman)
- Role: Explosive middle-order Indian batsman
Sarfaraz Khan is a name that is expected to attract fierce bids, especially from teams like DC who are looking for an impactful Indian middle-order batsman. His phenomenal domestic T20 record and ability to accelerate late in the innings could solve DC’s occasional problems after the powerplay.
His performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) late 2025, with an impressive 100 off 47 balls, highlights his match-winning ability and explosive strike rate, making him a domestic investment with high potential.
3) Gerald Coetzee (overseas fast bowler)
- Role: Tempo Spearhead and Death Over Specialist
The young South African pacer, Gerald Coetzeeis in demand for his genuine pace, aggression and skill in death overs. DC is constantly looking for a reliable fast bowler abroad.
Although his IPL 2025 run was cut short by injury, his ability to take crucial wickets in the middle order (as evidenced by his 2/32 figure in the SA20) remains his core value. His addition would significantly strengthen DC’s pace battery and provide a valuable overseas bowling option.
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4) Venkatesh Iyer (Indian all-rounder)
- Role: Batting Allrounder/Finisher
Venkatesh Iyeran established Indian all-rounder, will be a high priority target. His main value lies in his destructive left-handed batting in the middle order and the utility of his medium-pace bowling. Iyer’s impact, especially scores of 45 (29) and 60 (29) in IPL 2025, shows his ability to deliver a game-changing innings. Although his bowling has been used less often, his potential as an all-rounder provides DC with crucial balance and depth.
5. David Miller (overseas finisher)
- Role: Power hitter and finisher
David Millerknown as ‘Killer Miller’, remains one of the most reliable foreign finishers in the world. Since DC often needs a big hitter to close out the innings, Miller’s experience and explosive strikeout rate would be invaluable. His average of 58.50 in the 2025 SA20 highlights his exceptional finishing ability, often going unbeaten to guide his team home. His consistent match-winning performances in that tough role make him a calculated risk worth taking for a team looking to maximize their scoring potential in the final overs.
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