Delhi Capitals have turned to continuity and character as they named India star Jemimah Rodrigues as captain ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier League season.
The 25-year-old, a core member of the Capitals setup since the league’s inception, takes over leadership duties as the franchise looks to finally go one step further after finishing runners-up in all three editions of the WPL so far.
Rodrigues’ appointment is both a reward for sustained excellence and a statement of intent from the JSW-GMR co-owned franchise. She was Delhi Capitals’ first pick at the inaugural WPL auction and has since grown into one of the team’s most influential figures on and off the field. Across 27 WPL matches, she has scored 507 runs at a strike rate of 139.67, featuring in every final the team has played, underlining her consistency and big-match temperament.
Her elevation to captaincy also comes on the back of a landmark year in international cricket. Rodrigues was a central figure in India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup triumph, producing one of the defining innings of the tournament with a scintillating unbeaten 127 against Australia in the semi-final. That knock powered India to a world-record chase of 339 and reinforced Rodrigues’ reputation as a player who thrives under pressure on the biggest stages.
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For Delhi Capitals, leadership from within has been a long-term philosophy, and Rodrigues fits that mould perfectly. Known for her high-energy presence, sharp cricketing brain, and ability to connect with teammates, she has been a livewire in the field and a positive influence in the dressing room. Her infectious enthusiasm has also helped her forge a strong bond with Capitals supporters, making her one of the franchise’s most recognisable faces.
Parth Jindal, Co-owner of Delhi Capitals and Founder of JSW Sports, said the decision was a natural progression. “Jemimah has been with us since day one, and there was never any doubt that she would one day captain the team. Beyond her on-field heroics, her energy and positivity have made her a much-loved presence in the group. Her World Cup semi-final innings against Australia was truly inspiring, and we are immensely proud to have her now lead the Delhi Capitals. I am confident she will guide the team well and help us finally cross the line after three consecutive finals.”
Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman and Co-owner of Delhi Capitals, echoed those sentiments, highlighting Rodrigues’ alignment with the franchise’s values. “Jemimah was the first name in our squad when the WPL began and has played a pivotal role in our journey since. She embodies what Delhi Capitals stands for—fearless cricket, team-first values, and relentless energy. Having featured in all three finals, she understands what it takes at this level, and we believe she can take us that one step further.”
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Speaking after her appointment, Rodrigues described the captaincy as deeply personal. “It is an absolute honour to be named captain of the Delhi Capitals. This franchise has held a very special place in my heart since the first season. It has been a dream year for me and my family winning the World Cup and now being trusted with this responsibility. I have learned so much over the last three years, and this team truly feels like family. While I will miss some players from the first cycle, I am excited to build new memories with both familiar faces and new teammates. We have a strong group and a clear goal to finally cross that line.”
Rodrigues brings significant international experience into the role. She has represented India in 113 T20 Internationals, scoring 2,444 runs at an average of 30.93 with 14 half-centuries. In 59 ODIs, she has amassed 1,749 runs, including three centuries and eight half-centuries, establishing herself as one of India’s most dependable middle-order batters across formats.
Delhi Capitals will begin their WPL 2026 campaign against Mumbai Indians on Saturday, January 10, in Navi Mumbai. With a settled core, renewed leadership, and the hunger of three near-misses, the franchise enters the new season with belief and with Jemimah Rodrigues at the helm, a familiar face now tasked with leading Delhi’s final push towards a long-awaited title.
