For the fourth consecutive season, Delhi Capitals fell at the final hurdle in the Women’s Premier League in 2026, losing its fourth successive final, this time to Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Jemimah Rodrigues’ side finished third in the league phase, winning four of its eight matches, before beating Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator to reach the final.

With the trophy still elusive, the DC management, led by head coach Jonathan Batty, has taken a ruthless approach to its retentions as it looks to end its run of runner-up finishes.

South African batter Lizelle Lee was the team’s leading run-scorer last season, but she has been released, with DC seemingly looking to reassess the balance of its overseas combination.

World Cup winner Sneh Rana has also departed after a difficult season with the ball.

Australian leg-spinner Alana King, who has struggled to secure playing time in the WPL, has been released after failing to make a single appearance last season. Wicketkeeper Taniya Bhatia, who had been with DC since the inaugural edition, has also been let go.

Possible auction targets: The departures of Lee and Bhatia leave DC without a recognised wicketkeeper in its squad, making the acquisition of at least one specialist glovewoman a priority.

It could also look for an Indian spinner to complement Sree Charani and fill the role Rana played last season. Depending on its options, DC may also seek a wicketkeeper who can strengthen the top order.

Published on Oct 26, 2026