Delhi Capitals (DC) Another memorable but ultimately heartbreaking one Women’s Premier League (WPL) season in 2025. They qualified directly for the finals after consistent performances, finishing first in the league stage.
Delhi Capitals’ bittersweet WPL 2025 campaign
However, their hopes of securing the elusive trophy were dashed once again as they lost Mumbai Indians Defeated by eight runs in a tough match. This is their third consecutive defeat in the WPL finals, a series that has now become a bitter reminder of their consistent excellence but unfinished business.
Throughout the season, DC demonstrated strong teamwork, blending promising Indian talent with experienced international stars. Jess Jonassen was an excellent all-rounder who made an impact with both bat and ball. meg lanning, marijane kappAnd Shafali Verma Played a vital role in maintaining their dominance during the league stage.
DC may retain 5 players before WPL 2026
As the WPL 2026 mega auction approaches, the Capitals management is facing important decisions regarding retaining its core group. His aim will be to maintain a balance between proven match winners and emerging youngsters who can take the team forward. Here is a look at the five players that Delhi Capitals may retain ahead of the new season.
1. Meg Lanning – Inspirational Leader
- Role: opening batsman and captain
- price in 2025: INR 1.10 crore
- performance in 2025: 276 runs in 9 matches with 3 half-centuries
Dhadkan Lanning of Delhi Capitals has played an important role in building the identity of the team since the beginning of WPL. The Australian legend once again displayed his class in 2025, scoring 276 runs and leading the team with characteristic calmness and tactical brilliance. His ability to shape innings and build partnerships is unmatched and his presence at the top adds tremendous confidence to the batting unit.
Despite the sadness of three consecutive finals losses, Lanning’s leadership continues to inspire his teammates. DC management will undoubtedly support him to guide the team once again in 2026, hopefully his experience and resilience will eventually lead them to their first WPL title.
2. Jemimah Rodriguez – Comeback Star
- Role: top order batsman
- Price in 2025: Rs 2.20 crore
- performance in 2025: 146 runs in 9 matches with 1 half-century
Whereas jemima rodrigues Despite a relatively modest WPL 2025 campaign, scoring 146 runs, he has only recently rediscovered his form on the international stage. Her stellar performances in India’s victorious Women’s World Cup campaign – particularly her match-winning century against Australia in the semi-finals – have restored her confidence and momentum.
DC’s think tank will see Jemima as an essential player for its future plans. His versatility at the top of the order and ability to accelerate under pressure makes him a natural fit into Lanning’s attacking setup. Furthermore, her newfound confidence could make for an even more impressive WPL 2026 season, making her a valuable retention for Delhi.
3. Shafali Verma – Power-packed opener
- Role: opening batter
- Price in 2025: INR 2.00 Crore
- Performance in 2025: 304 runs with 1 half-century in 9 matches
One of India’s most explosive batsmen, Shafali has been the cornerstone of Delhi’s batting unit since the first WPL season. Shafali, known for her fearless stroke play, once again made her presence felt in 2025 with 304 runs, which also included a stormy half-century. His ability to dominate the powerplay and demolish opposition attacks gives DC an edge at the top of the order.
At just 21, Shafali is already one of the most dangerous opening batsmen in women’s cricket. Her partnership with Meg Lanning has often dictated the direction of Delhi’s innings, and her continued growth makes her an indispensable asset. Retaining him will ensure that DC maintains a powerful top-order combination till 2026.
Also read: WPL 2026: Mumbai Indians (MI) may retain 5 players before the Women’s Premier League mega auction
4. Jess Jonassen – All-round dynamo
- Role: all-rounder
- Price in 2025: 50 lakh rupees
- performance in 2025: 13 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 18.08
Australian left arm spinner Jess Jonassen He was undoubtedly one of the most consistent performers for Delhi Capitals in 2025. With 13 wickets in eight matches, he often provided crucial breakthroughs and maintained tight control in the middle overs. His ability to contribute useful runs lower down the order also added depth to the batting order.
Jonassen’s experience, adaptability to Indian pitches and calm nature under pressure makes him one of the most valuable overseas all-rounders in the league. With his proven record and balance in the team, DC are expected to retain him for WPL 2026 without any hesitation.
5. Nikki Prasad – Rising Star
- Role: all-rounder
- Price in 2025: 10 lakh rupees
- Performance in 2025: 78 runs in 8 matches
aspiring star nikki prasad He is already considered one of India’s most promising young all-rounders. The former captain of the India U19 women’s team, Prasad displayed maturity beyond her years in the WPL 2025, scoring easy runs in the lower-middle order and showing excellent temperament in pressure situations.
Although he has yet to achieve any major success statistically, DC’s management views him as a long-term investment. His leadership background and all-round skills make him an exciting prospect for the future. Retaining him ahead of the mega auction will demonstrate Delhi’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and building a permanent team core.
Also read: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) appoints new bowling coach ahead of WPL 2026
This article was first published here WomenCricket.comA Cricket Times Company.
