The Delhi Capitals, known for their consistent performances but heartbreaks at critical moments, have once again demonstrated their commitment to building a balanced squad. Under the leadership of legendary skipper Meg Lanning, the Capitals have been runners-up in both editions of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) so far.
In the inaugural WPL in 2023, they suffered a crushing seven-wicket defeat at the hands of Mumbai Indians in the final. The second season saw them fall short again, losing the final to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by eight wickets. Determined to end their string of near-misses, Delhi Capitals focused on rejuvenating their squad in the WPL 2025 Auction with a strong emphasis on young talent, particularly in the wicket-keeping department.
Delhi Capitals: A Renewed Strategy for 2025
Ahead of the auction, the Capitals released four players: Laura Harris, Poonam Yadav, Ashwani Kumari, and Aparna Mondal. With a purse of ₹1.73 crore, they carefully picked four promising talents for ₹85 lakhs, saving ₹1.65 crore for potential mid-season replacements or other needs.
The inclusion of young wicket-keepers Nandini Kashyap and Sarah Bryce, alongside Indian all-rounder Niki Prasad and spinner Nallapureddy Charani, showcased a strategy aimed at blending youth with the experienced core of their squad.
Key Picks from the WPL 2025 Auction
1) Nandini Kashyap (India) – ₹10 Lakhs
The promising wicket-keeper batter from Uttarakhand was picked at her base price. Nandini impressed in the domestic circuit, where she topped the charts in the Women’s Uttarakhand Premier League with 123 runs in three matches. Her ability to score under pressure and sharp skills behind the stumps make her a valuable addition to the Capitals’ lineup.
2) N Charani (India) – ₹55 Lakhs
The Capitals spent big on Andhra Pradesh’s left-arm spinner, making her their most expensive pick of the auction. Charani’s standout performances in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy 2024, where she scalped five wickets, make her a reliable option for controlling the middle overs. Her ability to bowl economical spells and pick key wickets will add depth to the Capitals’ bowling arsenal.
3) Sarah Bryce (Scotland) – ₹10 Lakhs
The talented Scottish wicket-keeper batter, Sarah Bryce, brings international experience to the Capitals. Known for her aggressive batting at the top and consistent performances in franchise leagues worldwide, Bryce is an exciting prospect. Her addition strengthens Delhi’s wicket-keeping options, providing depth and flexibility in their playing XI.
4) Niki Prasad (India) – ₹10 Lakhs
Niki Prasad, an all-rounder with solid domestic experience, was another budget buy by the Capitals. Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with her excellent fielding, makes her a versatile asset for the team.
Delhi Capitals’ Final Squad for WPL 2025
After the auction, the Capitals assembled a well-rounded squad with a mix of experienced internationals, domestic stars, and emerging talents. Here’s the complete lineup:
| Player Name | Role | Nationality | Auction Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meg Lanning (C) | Batter | Australia | Retained |
| Jemimah Rodrigues | Batter | India | Retained |
| Shafali Verma | Batter | India | Retained |
| Sneha Deepthi | Batter | India | Retained |
| Taniya Bhatia (WK) | Wicket-keeper Batter | India | Retained |
| Sarah Bryce (WK) | Wicket-keeper Batter | Scotland | ₹10 Lakhs |
| Nandini Kashyap (WK) | Wicket-keeper Batter | India | ₹10 Lakhs |
| Alice Capsey | All-rounder | England | Retained |
| Annabel Sutherland | All-rounder | Australia | Retained |
| Arundhati Reddy | All-rounder | India | Retained |
| Jess Jonassen | All-rounder | Australia | Retained |
| Marizanne Kapp | All-rounder | South Africa | Retained |
| Minnu Mani | All-rounder | India | Retained |
| Radha Yadav | Bowler | India | Retained |
| Shikha Pandey | Bowler | India | Retained |
| Niki Prasad | All-rounder | India | ₹10 Lakhs |
| Nallapureddy Charani | Bowler | India | ₹55 Lakhs |
| Titas Sadhu | Bowler | India | Retained |
Strategic Analysis: Delhi Capitals’ WPL 2025 Squad
1. Youthful Energy in the Wicket-Keeping Department
The Capitals now boast three wicket-keeping options: Taniya Bhatia, Sarah Bryce, and Nandini Kashyap. This move ensures flexibility in team selection while fostering healthy competition for the starting spot.
2. A Balanced Bowling Attack
With the addition of Nallapureddy Charani, the Capitals have further strengthened their spin department, complementing experienced bowlers like Radha Yadav and Jess Jonassen.
3. Dependable All-Rounders
Retaining world-class all-rounders such as Annabel Sutherland, Alice Capsey, and Marizanne Kapp, along with young talents like Minnu Mani, keeps Delhi’s squad dynamic and adaptable.
4. Building for the Future
Investing in uncapped Indian players like Niki Prasad and Nandini Kashyap highlights the franchise’s focus on developing future stars while maintaining competitiveness for the upcoming season.
Can Delhi Break the Final Jinx?
The Delhi Capitals have come tantalizingly close to glory in both editions of the WPL, finishing as runners-up each time. With a fresh infusion of young talent and the steady leadership of Meg Lanning, they aim to go the extra mile in 2025.
Their revamped squad, featuring a strong core of experienced players and promising newcomers, positions them as serious contenders for the title. Fans will eagerly await to see if Delhi can finally shed their “runner-up” tag and lift the trophy.
FAQs
1. Who are the new players in Delhi Capitals’ squad for WPL 2025?
The Delhi Capitals added Nandini Kashyap, Sarah Bryce, Niki Prasad, and Nallapureddy Charani during the auction.
2. Why is Sarah Bryce a key pick for Delhi Capitals?
Sarah Bryce brings international experience, aggressive batting, and sharp wicket-keeping skills, offering depth and flexibility to the Capitals.
3. How much money did Delhi Capitals save after the auction?
Delhi Capitals saved ₹1.65 crore from their auction purse, which could be used for mid-season replacements or future player acquisitions.
4. What has been Delhi Capitals’ performance in previous WPL seasons?
The Capitals finished as runners-up in both the inaugural 2023 season and the 2024 edition of the WPL.
5. Who is the captain of Delhi Capitals for WPL 2025?
Meg Lanning, the Australian cricket legend, continues to lead the Delhi Capitals.
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