As anticipation builds for the upcoming WPL 2026 Mega Auction, the JSW-GMR co-owned Delhi Capitals have confirmed the retention of five key players Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, and Niki Prasad.
The announcement comes just weeks before the mega auction and underscores the franchise’s commitment to continuity, stability, and long-term success.
For Delhi Capitals the only team to have reached the final in all three editions of the Women’s Premier League the retentions represent a balance between proven international quality and young Indian promise. Both Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma, fresh off India’s World Cup triumph, were instrumental in India’s run to the title, reaffirming their status as world-class match-winners.
The team management said the decision followed extensive analysis of performances, impact, and team balance, ensuring that Delhi Capitals enter the new cycle with a strong foundation.
Leadership’s Vision for a New Era
Reflecting on the decisions, Parth Jindal, Co-owner of Delhi Capitals and Founder of JSW Sports, said the mega auction presented both challenges and opportunities.
“Letting go of players from such a consistent, high-performing squad is never easy, but that’s the challenge of a mega auction,” said Jindal. “Every player has been vital to our journey so far. Although we narrowly missed lifting the trophy, we are immensely proud of what this group has achieved over the first three seasons.”
He added that the retained players form a strong nucleus to build around:
“We’re very satisfied with our retentions. Jemi, Shafali, Marizanne, Annabel, and Niki provide the perfect mix of flair, experience, and reliability. My best wishes to all the players, both retained and released, for the next phase of their careers. The upcoming mega auction will be exciting and hopefully, this is the season where we finally go one step further.”
Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman and Co-owner of Delhi Capitals, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the broader role the WPL has played in shaping women’s cricket in India.
“The WPL has been a remarkable journey for the sport. We’re proud of how this team has performed three consecutive finals is no small feat. As we enter a new cycle, our focus remains on nurturing the exceptional talent within our ranks and strengthening around it. The mega auction is a new beginning, and we are confident that this group will continue to inspire and bring us closer to lifting that trophy.”
Head Coach Jonathan Batty praised the camaraderie and professionalism that have defined Delhi Capitals over the years.
“We’ve played some outstanding cricket over the first three seasons,” Batty said. “This was a close-knit group that worked selflessly for one another, and that unity showed in our performances. Releasing players is always tough especially after sharing such success but that’s part of the league’s evolution. We’re delighted with the players we’ve retained, and now our focus will be on building around this strong core. It’s going to be a fascinating auction, and we’re excited about the next chapter.”
A Blend of Stability and Renewal
The retained quintet reflects a blend of experience and emerging potential.
- Jemimah Rodrigues brings her trademark composure and stroke play, having been a pillar in Delhi’s middle order.
- Shafali Verma, one of the most explosive openers in the world, continues to set the tone at the top.
- Marizanne Kapp and Annabel Sutherland, both proven all-rounders, offer balance with their ability to contribute in all facets.
- Niki Prasad, the young Indian prospect, has impressed the think-tank with her adaptability and consistency.
The decision also signifies Delhi’s forward-looking approach prioritizing multi-dimensional cricketers and a sustainable core that aligns with the team’s philosophy of backing performance and potential over short-term results.
Players Released and Road Ahead
Among the high-profile releases are several international and domestic stars, including Meg Lanning, Alice Capsey, Jess Jonassen, Radha Yadav, and Shikha Pandey. The franchise acknowledged the invaluable role these players played in Delhi’s consistent run to the finals.
With 13 available slots heading into the WPL 2026 Mega Auction, scheduled for late November 2025, the Capitals will look to strengthen their lineup with an eye on versatility and depth.
The team’s track record underlines their consistency having finished runners-up in all three seasons since the WPL’s inception in 2023. Now, with a refreshed setup and renewed ambition, Delhi Capitals aim to convert near-misses into triumphs.
Retained Players
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Shafali Verma
- Marizanne Kapp
- Annabel Sutherland
- Niki Prasad
Released Players
Meg Lanning, Sneha Deepthi, Alice Capsey, Arundhati Reddy, Jess Jonassen, Minnu Mani, N Charani, Shikha Pandey, Nandini Kashyap, Sarah Bryce, Taniyaa Bhatia, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu
About Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals, co-owned by the GMR Group and JSW Group, compete in both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Established originally as Delhi Daredevils in 2008, the franchise underwent a rebrand in 2019 and has since emerged as one of the most consistent teams in both leagues. In the WPL, Delhi Capitals have reached the final in all three editions, showcasing excellence, discipline, and resilience.
As the WPL 2026 season approaches, the team’s focus remains unwavering to continue setting benchmarks and to bring home their maiden title.
