DC playing XI for IPL 2026: Duckett vs Nissanka, who opens with KL Rahul? | Cricket News

This season, Delhi Capitals have almost reset their squad, bringing in several new players while retaining a few experienced faces. It will be interesting to see how the new combinations perform.Here’s a look at the strongest predicted playing XI of Delhi Capitals for IPL 2026: Pathum Nissanka: Pathum Nissanka was one of Delhi Capitals’ key buys in the IPL 2026 auction, acquired for Rs 4 crore. He is likely to open alongside KL Rahul, although he may face competition from Ben Duckett for the spot. However, his century against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup makes him a strong contender for the opening role.KL Rahul (WK): KL Rahul, who played in the middle order last season, is expected to return to his preferred opening position. He scored 539 runs last season, including a memorable unbeaten 93 against RCB in Bengaluru. Rahul will also take on wicketkeeping duties for DC.Nitish Rana: Nitish Rana was traded to Delhi Capitals for Rs 4.20 crore ahead of IPL 2026. He is expected to play a crucial role at the No. 3 position, providing stability and experience in the top order.Tristan Stubbs: Tristan Stubbs was a standout performer for DC in IPL 2025, serving as their primary finisher. He scored 300 runs in 13 innings at an impressive strike rate of 150.75, playing a key role in the middle-to-death overs, likely at No. 4 this season.David Miller: David Miller was acquired by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction, marking a significant price drop from previous seasons. The experienced South African finisher adds power and stability to DC’s middle order after being released by Lucknow Super Giants.Axar Patel (C): Axar Patel retains the captaincy this season. He displayed maturity and composure as a leader last year and will aim to build on that success in IPL 2026.Ashutosh Sharma: Ashutosh Sharma has established himself as a reliable finisher. Last season, he played a match-winning knock of 61* off 31 balls against LSG, guiding DC to a one-wicket victory. Coming in as an Impact Sub, he rescued the team from 7/3, smashing five fours and five sixes.Vipraj Nigam: Vipraj Nigam, a 20-year-old leg-spinning all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh, had an impressive debut season in IPL 2025. Bought for Rs 50 lakh, he scored 142 runs and picked up 11 wickets in 14 matches. His quick 39 off 15 balls against LSG was a highlight. He adds depth to the lower order with both bat and ball.Mitchell Starc: Mitchell Starc is set to lead DC’s pace attack, although he is still awaiting clearance from Cricket Australia and may miss the initial matches. Captain Axar Patel has indicated that if Starc is unavailable, T Natarajan will lead the pace unit.Kuldeep Yadav: Kuldeep Yadav was in excellent form in IPL 2025, picking up 15 wickets in 14 matches. As DC’s premier spinner, he will be a key weapon and could be a strong contender for the Purple Cap this season.Mukesh Kumar: Mukesh Kumar was an important part of DC’s bowling attack last season, taking 12 wickets in 12 innings. He will play a crucial supporting role alongside Starc and Natarajan in the pace department.Impact Player OptionsDelhi Capitals are likely to use Abhishek Porel or T Natarajan as their Impact Player, depending on match situations and pitch conditions.Delhi Capitals likely XII for IPL 2026: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul, Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Impact – Abhishek Porel/ T Natrajan