IPL 2025 mega auction: Delhi Capitals auction strategy, players retained, probable buys

The Delhi Capitals (DC) caused a stir recently when they decided not to retain Rishabh Pant. Nevertheless, they have chosen to retain Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Tristan Stubbs. With a substantial budget at their disposal for the upcoming mega-auction, the team is in a strong position to make strategic acquisitions. In addition to bolstering their spin department, the Capitals are actively seeking top-quality overseas batsmen, a foreign fast bowler, and potentially an Indian seamer. 

Players retained: Axar Patel ( Rs 16.50 crore), Kuldeep Yadav ( Rs 13.25 crore), Tristan Stubbs ( Rs 10 crore), Abishek Porel ( Rs 4 crore)

Remaining Purse: Rs 75 crore

Auction Strategy

The Capitals possess the third-largest budget in the league, giving them a significant advantage in acquiring top talent from India. It is highly likely that they will aggressively pursue players such as Pant, Rahul, or Shreyas. Additionally, they have the resources to target high-caliber international players, providing them with more flexibility than many other teams.

Furthermore, the Capitals have two Right to Match (RTM) cards at their disposal, one of which may be used on Pant. Other potential contenders include David Warner, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Mitchell Marsh. When considering Indian players, they may also consider Khaleel Ahmed and Mukesh Kumar. 

Probable buys

Mohammed Shami

Shami recently made his return to competitive cricket, which may have been a factor in the Gujarat Titans' decision not to retain him. However, in his recent game, there were clear indications that he has maintained his skill level despite his previous injury.

During the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Shami played a crucial role in leading the Titans to consecutive finals. The Capitals, on the other hand, have faced challenges since the 2021 season and could benefit from having a proven match-winner like Shami in their lineup. His ability to make a significant impact with the ball could be just what the team needs to turn their fortunes around.

KL Rahul

Due to the resources available to Delhi Capitals, they are in a strong position to aggressively pursue one of the top three Indian batting stars at the upcoming auction. The addition of KL Rahul to their squad could be a strategic move, as he has the ability to open the batting and lead the team. Rahul, much like the Capitals, is in need of a fresh start in the IPL and has the potential to align perfectly with the franchise's goals and aspirations.

Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer, much like Rishabh Pant, has previously captained the Delhi Capitals and holds the title of their most successful skipper to date, having guided them to the final of the 2020 season.

As he becomes available for the upcoming auction, Shreyas emerges as the perfect candidate to lead the team in a new direction if the Capitals choose to do so. Not only is he a shrewd leader, but he also boasts exceptional skills as a middle-order batsman, making him a valuable asset on the field.

Rishabh Pant

It may seem counterintuitive, but there are rumors circulating that DC is considering bringing Pant back to the team. While his return would come at a high cost, potentially exceeding what it would take to retain him, the acquisition of a world-class Indian player who is intimately familiar with the franchise could prove to be a significant win for DC. This presents a potential win-win situation, provided that Pant is also open to the idea of returning.

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