With ₹21.8 crore left; 3 released players Delhi Capitals should prioritise for IPL 2026 auction

Delhi Capitals (Source: AFP)

After a promising start in IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals faltered in the final stretch and narrowly missed the playoffs. Their decision to release Faf du Plessis (age concern), Jake Fraser-McGurk (IPL 2025 form), Darshan Nalkande, Mohit Sharma, Sediqullah Atal and Manvanth Kumar appears strategic.

After releasing these players, DC now have ₹21.8 crore remaining, with eight slots available, including four overseas slots. Their core KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, and Mitchell Starc, however, remain intact. Having said this, let's take a look at three released players Delhi Capitals could target at the IPL 2026 auction.

1. Matheesha Pathirana

(Matheesha Pathirana's IPL stats from 2022 to 2025)

• One of the most notable names in this auction, Matheesha Pathirana, was a surprise release by CSK. Despite an inconsistent 2025 season, his record over the last three years speaks for itself. While KKR are expected to pursue him aggressively, DC also have strong reasons to join the race. 
• Even though Delhi have Dushmantha Chameera, Mukesh Kumar, and T. Natarajan, they can invest in a specialist middle-overs and death-overs pacer to support Mitchell Starc. A Starc–Pathirana combination would give DC both left-arm and right-arm combinations. With ₹21.8 crore available and overseas slots, DC have the financial flexibility to push for Pathirana.

2. Liam Livingstone

• Ahead of IPL 2026, Delhi will want to focus on the middle order and Liam Livingstone is the ideal fit. While KL Rahul (539 runs) and Tristan Stubbs (300 runs) performed strongly for DC last year. The franchise will want to invest in a reliable power-hitting all-rounder who could change games with the bat and contribute with the ball.
• Given DC’s relatively tight purse, Livingstone offers multi-role value, making him a high-impact, cost-efficient choice.

(Liam Livingstone's IPL 2025 stats)

3. Quinton de Kock

• One of Delhi’s biggest concerns last season was their inconsistent opening combination. Faf du Plessis struggled, while Jake Fraser-McGurk was unable to provide reliable starts. With both players released, DC urgently need a seasoned opener. 
• Quinton de Kock, released by KKR, fits the requirement perfectly. Taking a look at his overall IPL stats, he has played 115 matches and made 3309 runs at an average of 30.64 and at the strike-rate of 134.02.
• If Delhi opts for de Kock, the franchise can also maintain the right–left combination at the top. With KL Rahul capable of batting at No. 3 if needed, de Kock gives DC multiple lineup options.

Conclusion

With a balanced core but noticeable gaps in key areas, the Delhi Capitals will need strategic, value-driven purchases in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. If DC manage to secure effective released players, they could enter IPL 2026 with a significantly stronger and more complete squad, capable of making a deep run in the tournament.

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