The Delhi Capitals (DC), formerly known as the Delhi Daredevils, have been one of the most enigmatic teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite having some of the biggest names in cricket over the years, the franchise has never won an IPL title. As they gear up for the 2025 season, DC will be led by Axar Patel under the guidance of coach Hemang Badani, hoping to break their title drought.
This article explores the Delhi Capitals’ squad, ownership, home ground, past performances, highs and lows, and expectations for the 2025 IPL season.
Delhi Capitals: Team Overview (2025)
- Captain: Axar Patel
- Head Coach: Hemang Badani
- Home Ground: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
- IPL Titles: 0
- Owners: GMR Sports Pvt Ltd & JSW Sports Pvt Ltd
Originally named Delhi Daredevils, the franchise was rebranded as Delhi Capitals in December 2018, signaling a fresh approach. While they have consistently built strong squads, their inability to clinch the championship has been a recurring theme.
Delhi Capitals Squad (2025)
The 2025 squad features a mix of experienced international stars and emerging Indian talent. Here’s the complete roster:
Batsmen & All-Rounders:
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- David Warner
- Prithvi Shaw
- Yash Dhull
- Mitchell Marsh (Overseas)
- Lalit Yadav
- Axar Patel (Captain)
- Tristan Stubbs (Overseas)
Wicketkeepers:
- Phil Salt (Overseas)
- Abishek Porel
Bowlers:
- Anrich Nortje (Overseas)
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mukesh Kumar
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Ishant Sharma
- Vicky Ostwal
- Lungi Ngidi (Overseas)
Key Players to Watch in 2025:
- Axar Patel (Captain) – A reliable all-rounder with leadership skills.
- Rishabh Pant – Returning from injury, his explosive batting will be crucial.
- David Warner – A seasoned opener with vast IPL experience.
- Kuldeep Yadav – A match-winning spinner in the middle overs.
- Anrich Nortje – One of the fastest bowlers in the world.
Delhi Capitals’ Journey in the IPL: A Historical Perspective
Early Years (2008-2012): Playoff Contenders
- 2008 & 2009: Reached the semi-finals but fell short.
- 2012: Topped the league stage with 11 wins in 16 matches but lost in the playoffs.
- Key Players: Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, AB de Villiers, and Morne Morkel.
Downfall (2013-2018): Struggles & Rebuilding
- 2013-2018: Finished last or near the bottom multiple times.
- Poor Retention Decisions: Letting go of players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Andre Russell, and Trent Boult hurt the team.
Rebranding & Revival (2019-2022)
- 2019: Rebranded as Delhi Capitals, made playoffs.
- 2020: Reached their first-ever IPL final but lost to Mumbai Indians.
- 2021: Topped the league stage but lost in playoffs.
Recent Struggles (2023-2024)
- 2023: Another disappointing season, finishing near the bottom.
- 2024: Showed glimpses of promise but failed to qualify for playoffs.
Delhi Capitals’ Highs and Lows
Highs:
✅ 2008 & 2009: Strong semi-final runs.
✅ 2012 & 2021: Dominated the league stage.
✅ 2020: First-ever IPL final appearance.
✅ Emergence of Young Talent: Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, and Yash Dhull.
Lows:
❌ 2013-2018: Multiple last-place finishes.
❌ Poor Retention Decisions: Losing future stars like Kohli, de Villiers, and Russell.
❌ 2023 Season: Another bottom-tier finish.
Expectations for the 2025 Season
With Axar Patel leading the side and Rishabh Pant back in action, Delhi Capitals have a strong core. Key factors for success:
1. Strong Leadership – Axar Patel & Hemang Badani
- Patel’s calm demeanor and Badani’s tactical approach could bring stability.
2. Batting Firepower – Pant, Warner, Shaw
- If these three fire, DC can post or chase big totals.
3. Bowling Attack – Nortje, Kuldeep, Khaleel
- A well-rounded bowling unit with pace and spin options.
4. Home Advantage – Arun Jaitley Stadium
- Known for balanced pitches, aiding both batsmen and spinners.
Conclusion: Can Delhi Capitals Win Their First IPL in 2025?
The Delhi Capitals have always been a team with potential but no trophy. With a new captain, returning stars, and a balanced squad, 2025 could be their year. However, consistency will be key—something DC has struggled with in the past.
Will Axar Patel lead Delhi to their maiden IPL title? Or will the trophy drought continue? Only time will tell!
