A new era for Delhi Capitals (DC) is set to begin in WPL 2026, this time under the leadership of Jemimah Rodrigues. Over the last three seasons, DC have been the most consistent side in the tournament, qualifying directly for the final on each occasion. However, the title has continued to evade them. With Jemimah taking over the reins, DC will once again aim for a maiden WPL trophy, though certain areas promise strength while others pose clear challenges.
Here is a SWOT analysis of the DC squad ahead of the new season.
Strength
Strong top-order batters
DC boast one of the strongest top-order batting line-ups in the competition. The likely opening pair of Shafali Verma and Laura Wolvaardt provides a blend of aggression and stability, followed by captain Jemimah Rodrigues at No. 3 and Marizanne Kapp at No. 4. Shafali has been DC’s most destructive batter across the last three editions and is expected to play a similar role again. Wolvaardt, meanwhile, could finally get the extended run needed to showcase her full potential in the WPL. Jemimah’s presence at No. 3 will be vital in holding the innings together.
Variety of spinners
DC have assembled an impressive array of spin options, including off-spinners Minnu Mani and Sneh Rana, leg-spinner Alana King, and left-arm orthodox bowler N Shree Charani. This variety gives the team significant tactical flexibility based on pitch conditions and opposition.
Quality all-rounders
All-rounders are invaluable in the shortest format, and DC are well covered with Kapp, Rana, Minnu Mani and Chinelle Henry providing balance in both departments.
Weakness
Lack of depth in pace bowling
DC will miss the services of Annabel Sutherland, who pulled out of the season due to personal reasons despite being retained. In her absence, the primary pace options are Kapp and Henry. Sutherland’s ability to bowl cutters, particularly through the middle and death overs, will be sorely missed. Nandani Sharma and young Australian Lucy Hamilton remain the only other seam options, but both of them lack top-level experience, which could be a concern.
Lack of clarity in wicketkeeper options
DC have three wicketkeeping options: Lizelle Lee, Mamatha Madiwala and Taniyaa Bhatia. Taniyaa remains the best pure wicketkeeper but has struggled for consistency with the bat. Lee is set to feature in her maiden WPL season and typically opens the batting; fitting her into an already strong top order could disrupt the team balance. Mamatha is relatively inexperienced, though she could be tried in the No. 6 role.
Opportunity
Youth and leadership transition
WPL 2026 presents a major opportunity for Niki Prasad, whose retention reflects the franchise’s faith in her abilities. Youngsters such as Deeya Yadav and Mamatha Madiwala will also be under scrutiny. Sixteen-year-old Deeya has impressed in the domestic circuit for Haryana and now has a platform to announce herself at the highest level. Nandani Sharma, too, could seize her chances with impactful performances.
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The biggest opportunity, however, lies with skipper Jemimah Rodrigues. Meg Lanning guided DC to three finals but fell short each time. Jemimah will now look to take the side past that final hurdle, with her leadership and decision-making in crunch moments likely to define DC’s campaign. It will also work as an audition for the Indian captaincy in future.
Threat
Settling on the right combination
With several options available, DC’s biggest threat may lie in finding the ideal playing XI. The quicker the team settles on a stable combination, the better their chances of going all the way.
Full Squad
Jemimah Rodrigues (C), Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Alana King, Niki Prasad, Laura Wolvaardt, Chinelle Henry, Shree Charani, Sneh Rana, Lizelle Lee (WK), Deeya Yadav, Taniyaa Bhatia (WK), Mamatha Madiwala (WK), Nandni Sharma, Lucy Hamilton, Minnu Mani.
Also Read: WPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru – SWOT Analysis
