Delhi Capitals have taken a bold approach for the IPL 2025 mega auction by releasing most of their squad, including their long-time captain Rishabh Pant. This move signals a major strategic shift, as DC aims to build a fresh lineup and redefine its core team structure.

DC failed to qualify for the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. By the retention of only four players, the Capitals are likely prioritising flexibility and a stronger auction budget to attract impactful players who can bolster their performance in the upcoming season.

IPL 2025 Auction: Which Players Are Retained by Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025?

Axar Patel: Rs. 16.5 crores

Kuldeep Yadav: Rs. 13.25 crores

Tristan Stubbs: Rs. 10 crores

Abishek Porel: Rs. 4 crores

However, right now, one of the main concerns for the Capitals is to bring in a player for the captain role to fill up the void created by the release of Rishabh Pant. As it will be a mega auction, many candidates will be available to play the role.

IPL 2025 Auction: Who Could be the Captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025?

Shreyas Iyer: A familiar face for DC fans, Iyer captained the team successfully from 2018 to 2020, leading them to the finals in 2020. Iyer will be the most coveted option for the captaincy role for all the franchises who are looking for someone to lead their teams. In the last IPL, Iyer led KKR to the IPL trophy and now he is available in the auction. He would be a natural choice to lead and reconnect with the franchise, and it looks likely that the Capitals will go all in for Iyer in the auction.

Faf du Plessis: The seasoned South African batter known for his leadership experience, Faf du Plessis, could be an ideal fit to lead the Capitals in a rebuilding phase. As RCB did not retain him for the next IPL, he will be available in the mega auction. Du Plessis’ calm, experienced, and highly tactical leadership style aligns well with DC’s need for a steady hand to guide a fresh squad.

Axar Patel: The Indian bowling all-rounder has been with the Capitals for a long time now. He joined Delhi in 2019 and has been with the franchise till then. Patel was vice-captain for the Capitals in the last IPL. As he is retained for the next IPL, DC can consider him to lead the squad.

Besides these players, there are other potential candidates like KL Rahul or Kane Williamson, who have vast experience in limited-overs cricket. However, reconsideration for Rishabh Pant is also possible, but there will be a huge competition for the star wicketkeeper-batter.