With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 set to kick off on March 28, anticipation among fans is reaching fever pitch. After months of auctions, trades, and strategic reshuffles, franchises are gearing up for another high-octane season. Among the teams drawing significant attention are the Delhi Capitals (DC), who appear to have assembled a well-rounded and formidable squad. With a blend of experienced internationals and exciting young Indian talent, DC head into the new season with renewed hope and ambition. Fans will be eager to see whether this revamped unit can finally deliver consistency and mount a serious title challenge.
Kris Srikkanth names his preferred Delhi Capitals XI for IPL 2026
Former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth has shared his thoughts on what he believes should be Delhi Capitals’ strongest playing XI for IPL 2026. His selection reflects a mix of stability at the top, firepower in the middle, and variety in the bowling attack.
Srikkanth has backed KL Rahul and Abishek Porel to open the innings, a combination that offers both composure and attacking flair. At number three, he has slotted in Nitish Rana, whose experience in the IPL could prove vital in anchoring the innings when needed.
The middle order, according to Srikkanth, is where DC can truly dominate. He has picked David Miller and captain Axar Patel to provide solidity and finishing ability, followed by the explosive Tristan Stubbs and rising star Ashutosh Sharma. This lineup ensures depth and flexibility, allowing DC to adapt to different match situations.
In the bowling department, Srikkanth has gone with a strong and diverse attack. Vipraj Nigam finds a place as a promising option, while Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin charge. The pace attack is spearheaded by Mitchell Starc and Lungi Ngidi, both capable of making an impact with the new ball and at the death. Srikkanth also named Jammu and Kashmir star pacer Auqib Nabi as impact sub player.
Kris Srikkanth’s DC XI for IPL 2026: KL Rahul, Abishek Porel, Nitish Rana, David Miller, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, Lungi Ngidi.
Impact Sub: Auqib Nabi.
Also READ: IPL 2026: KL Rahul set for clear role as Delhi Capitals look for stability
Star-studded Delhi Capitals aim to deliver big
The Capitals enter IPL 2026 as a balanced and star-studded unit, built around a strong core featuring Axar, Rahul, Kuldeep, and Starc. The franchise has clearly focused on addressing the weaknesses that hurt them in the previous season, particularly their middle-order inconsistency and struggles in the death overs.
The inclusion of experienced campaigners like Miller and Nitish adds much-needed stability, while players like Stubbs and Ashutosh bring explosive finishing ability. This combination makes DC’s lower middle order one of the most dangerous on paper. Their bowling unit also looks formidable, with a mix of pace and spin options capable of adapting to different conditions. While the likes of Starc and Ngidi provide raw pace and wicket-taking ability, Kuldeep’s spin remains a key weapon in the middle overs.
However, much of DC’s success could depend on how well their top order performs. Finding consistency at the top has been a challenge in previous seasons, and the team will hope that their chosen combinations click early in the tournament.
Also READ: Mohammad Kaif, Cheteshwar Pujara select strongest Delhi Capitals’ playing XI for IPL 2026
