Delhi Capitals enter IPL 2025 with a renewed and balanced squad, combining fresh talent and seasoned players to build on past performances. Despite parting ways with their former captain and star player Rishabh Pant, the team has strategically filled the void with impressive acquisitions during the auction.
KL Rahul, a bargain at 14 crores, is set to lead the charge as an opener, alongside Jake Fraser-McGurk, brought back via RTM for 9 crores. Their top order boasts the explosive Harry Brook, supported by the retained Tristan Stubbs, creating a solid batting lineup.
On the bowling front, the addition of Mitchell Starc (11.75 crores) strengthens their pace attack, complemented by T Natarajan and reliable death-over specialists like Mukesh Singh and Mohit Sharma. With a well-rounded team capable of thriving in both home and away conditions, Delhi Capitals look poised for a strong campaign in IPL 2025.
STRENGTHS
Lethal Bowling Unit: Delhi Capitals boast a balanced and versatile bowling attack. With Mitchell Starc along with T Natarajan handling the new ball, Mohit Sharma and Mukesh Singh taking charge in the death overs, they can dominate any batting lineup. The spin department, featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, adds variety and control.
Promising Young Batting Core: The Capitals have invested heavily in young batting talents. Jake Fraser-McGurk, known for his explosive powerplay starts, and Harry Brook, consistently scoring across all formats, brings dynamism to the top order. In the middle order, Tristan Stubbs provides stability and firepower, while Ashutosh Sharma, fresh off match-winning performances for Punjab Kings last season, adds versatility in death overs.
WEAKNESSES
Limited Batting Depth: While Delhi Capitals have a strong top and middle order, their batting depth remains a concern. If early wickets fall, the lower order, comprising Ashutosh Sharma and Axar Patel at No. 6 and 7, lacks proven firepower. Following them are Mitchell Starc and Kuldeep Yadav, neither known for their batting capabilities, which could leave them vulnerable in tight chases or high-scoring games.
Lack of an Off-Spinner: Despite having two excellent spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, the team lacks a quality right-arm off-spinner. This gap could make them susceptible against opposition left-handed batters, who might capitalize on this weakness, particularly on spinning tracks.
OPPORTUNITIES
Chasing the First Title: Delhi Capitals have rebuilt their team, aiming for their maiden IPL title. Despite coming close multiple times—reaching the finals in 2020 and the qualifiers in 2021—they have fallen short. With a balanced squad and renewed determination, this could be their season to finally lift the trophy.
Showcasing Indian Talent: Delhi Capitals have invested in young Indian players like Abishek Porel, who impressed last season and is likely to feature in the playing XI again. Additionally, Ashutosh Sharma, a promising finisher and new recruit, has a golden opportunity to shine, perform consistently, and help the team secure crucial wins.
THREATS
Adapting to a New Team: While KL Rahul brings a wealth of IPL experience, playing with a new set of teammates and adapting to a fresh team environment could be a challenge. If he takes on the captaincy, his ability to lead and unify the team effectively will play a significant role in determining their success.
Lack of Experience in Pressure Situations: Despite their young and talented lineup, Delhi Capitals lack experienced batters in the middle order apart from KL Rahul. In high-pressure games or crucial moments, this absence of seasoned players could expose vulnerabilities, making it challenging to handle critical situations effectively.
Delhi Capitals squad for the IPL 2025
Retained Players: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel
Players Picked in the Auction: Mitchell Starc, KL Rahul, Harry Brook, Jake Fraser-McGurk (RTM), T Natarajan, Karun Nair, Sameer Rizvi, Ashutosh Sharma, Mohit Sharma, Faf du Plessis, Mukesh Kumar (RTM), Darshan Nalkande, Vipraj Nigam, Dushmantha Chameera, Donovan Ferreira, Ajay Mandal, Manvanth Kumar, Tripurana Vijay, Madhav Tiwari
Delhi Capitals Probable XI and Impact Player for the IPL 2025
Probable starting XI: Jake Fraser-McGurk, KL Rahul, Abishek Porel, Harry Brook, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Axar Patel, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Mohit Sharma (Impact).
CONCLUSION & RATINGS OUT OF 10
Delhi Capitals have built a strong and balanced squad for IPL 2025, blending experienced players like KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, and Axar Patel with young talents such as Jake Fraser-McGurk and Ashutosh Sharma. Their bowling attack looks lethal, with Starc, T Natarajan, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohit Sharma providing variety and control. The batting unit boasts firepower in Harry Brook, Tristan Stubbs, and Rahul, promising high-scoring performances.
However, the lack of depth in batting beyond No. 7 and the absence of a quality right-arm off-spinner could be potential areas of concern. Additionally, how quickly KL Rahul adjusts to the new team environment and possibly captains the side will be crucial for their success. With a solid blend of skills, they are strong contenders for their maiden IPL title.
Rating: 8/10