Delhi Capitals’ bittersweet WPL 2025 campaign
However, their hopes of capturing the elusive trophy were dashed once again when they lost to the Mumbai Indians with eight runs in a hard-fought game. This marked their third successive defeat in a WPL final, a run that has now become a bittersweet reminder of their consistent excellence but unfinished business.
Throughout the season, DC showed strong teamwork, combining experienced international stars with promising Indian talent. Jess Jonassen was the standout all-rounder and impressed with both bat and ball Meg Lanning, Marizanne KappAnd Shafali Verma played a crucial role in maintaining their dominance during the competition phase.
5 players DC can retain ahead of WPL 2026
As the WPL 2026 mega-auction approaches, the Capitals’ management is faced with crucial decisions about retaining their core group. Their aim will be to maintain a balance between proven match winners and emerging youngsters who can take the team forward. Here’s a look at the five players Delhi Capitals are likely to retain ahead of the new season.
1. Meg Lanning – The Inspirational Leader
- Role: Opening hitter and captain
- Price 2025: INR 1.10 crore
- Performance in 2025: 276 runs in 9 matches, 3 of which were fifties
Lanning, the heartbeat of Delhi Capitals, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity since the inception of the WPL. The Australian legend showed her class again in 2025, scoring 276 runs and leading the side with characteristic calm and tactical brilliance. Her ability to anchor innings and build partnerships remains unparalleled, and her presence at the top adds immense confidence to the batting unit.
Despite the heartache of three consecutive losses, Lanning’s leadership continues to inspire her teammates. DC management will no doubt back her to guide the team again in 2026, hoping her experience and resilience will ultimately lead them to their first WPL title.
2. Jemimah Rodrigues – The comeback star
- Role: Top class fittings
- Price 2025: INR 2.20 million
- Performance in 2025: 146 runs in 9 games with 1 fifty
While Rodrogus agrees had a relatively modest WPL 2025 campaign, scoring 146 runs, she has recently rediscovered her form on the international stage. Her spectacular performances in India’s triumphant Women’s World Cup campaign – especially her match-winning century against Australia in the semi-final – have restored her confidence and rhythm.
The DC think tank considers Jemimah an essential player for their future plans. Her versatility at the highest level and her ability to accelerate under pressure make her a natural fit in Lanning’s attacking lineup. Furthermore, her newfound confidence could translate into a more impactful WPL 2026 season, making her a valuable retention for Delhi.
3. Shafali Verma — The powerful opener
- Role: Opening fitting
- Price 2025: INR 2.00 million
- Achievements in 2025: 304 runs in 9 matches with 1 fifty
One of India’s most explosive batters, Shafali has been a cornerstone of Delhi’s batting unit since the inaugural WPL season. Known for her fearless strokeplay, Shafali made her presence felt again in 2025 with 304 runs, including a blistering half-century. Her ability to dominate the power play and dismantle opposition attacks gives DC an edge at the top of the order.
At just 21 years old, Shafali is already one of the most feared openers in women’s cricket. Her partnership with Meg Lanning has often set the tone for Delhi’s innings, and her continued growth makes her an indispensable asset. Keeping her will ensure DC maintains a powerful top combination heading into 2026.
READ also: WPL 2026: Mumbai Indians (MI) can retain 5 players ahead of Women’s Premier League mega auction
4. Jess Jonassen — The all-round dynamo
- Role: All-rounder
- Price 2025: INR 50 lakh
- Performance in 2025: 13 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 18.08
Australian left-arm spinner Jes Jonassen was undoubtedly one of the most consistent players for Delhi Capitals in 2025. With 13 wickets in eight matches, she regularly made crucial breakthroughs and maintained tight control in the middle overs. Her ability to contribute useful runs in the order also added depth to the batting line-up.
Jonassen’s experience, adaptability to Indian pitches and calm temperament under pressure make her one of the most valuable foreign all-rounders in the league. With her proven track record and balance in the squad, DC is expected to retain her for WPL 2026 without hesitation.
5. Niki Prasad – The rising star
- Role: All-rounder
- Price 2025: INR 10 lakh
- Achievements in 2025: 78 runs in 8 matches
The aspiring star Niki Prasad is already seen as one of India’s most promising young all-rounders. Prasad, former captain of the India U19 Women’s team, showed maturity beyond her years in WPL 2025, contributing with handy runs in the lower middle order and showing excellent temperament in pressure situations.
While she has yet to make a big mark statistically, DC management views her as a long-term investment. Her leadership background and all-round skills make her an exciting candidate for the future. Retaining her before the mega auction would demonstrate Delhi’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and building a sustainable squad core.
READ also: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) appoints new bowling coach ahead of WPL 2026
This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
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