13 Cr Star Out Of Plans; Players Delhi Capitals Should Release Before IPL 2027
A Period of Reflection for the Delhi Capitals
The Delhi Capitals concluded their most recent IPL campaign on May 24, marking yet another season that ended without the elusive trophy in their cabinet. The nineteen-year wait for silverware continues to haunt the franchise, as the squad, led by Axar Patel, finished in 6th place on the points table with 14 points from 14 matches. While the team managed a minor resurgence toward the end, securing three consecutive victories and a notable win over the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, the underlying issues remain glaring.
As the curtains fall on this season, the management must look toward the future. Preparing for IPL 2027 requires strategic financial planning and a brutal assessment of current personnel. To gain the necessary capital for a successful auction, the franchise must make tough decisions regarding their existing roster.
Analyzing the Potential Departures
To revitalize the team, Delhi Capitals must consider letting go of several high-profile players who have failed to deliver on expectations. Here is a breakdown of the individuals currently under scrutiny.
1. Karun Nair (50 Lakhs)
Karun Nair was retained for 50 lakhs ahead of IPL 2026. While he had a productive 2025 season with 198 runs, his form plummeted this year. Managing only 18 runs across two innings, Nair failed to contribute when the team needed him most. Beyond his struggles at the crease, his performance in the field was problematic; he famously dropped two crucial catches of Shreyas Iyer against the Punjab Kings, directly contributing to a loss. Given his lack of impact, releasing him is a logical step.
2. T Natarajan (10.75 Crores)
The left-arm seamer arrived with significant expectations after the team invested 10.75 crores in him. However, his performance was a major disappointment. Managing only 5 wickets in 10 innings with an economy rate of 11.18, Natarajan struggled significantly throughout the tournament. His six-game wicketless streak forced the team to drop him from the lineup entirely. Releasing him will provide a significant boost to the team’s purse for the upcoming auction.
3. Mukesh Kumar (8 Crores)
The bowling department was the Capitals’ weakest link throughout the season. Mukesh Kumar, retained for 8 crores, was expected to lead the attack but failed to justify the investment. With only 6 wickets in 10 innings and an economy rate exceeding 11, it is time for the franchise to seek a more reliable bowling option.
4. Rehan Ahmed (2 Crores)
The situation regarding Rehan Ahmed is a unique one. After the departure of Ben Duckett, who was banned for two years following his mid-season exit, Rehan Ahmed was brought in as a replacement. Despite being signed for a total purse value of 2 crores, he did not feature in a single game throughout the season. Releasing him is a straightforward move for the management.
5. Kuldeep Yadav (13.25 Crores)
Perhaps the most controversial move would be releasing the star spinner, Kuldeep Yadav. While franchises typically support elite players, the need for a fresh tactical approach might outweigh loyalty. Kuldeep took 10 wickets in 11 innings this season. While he showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the final match, the team may look to reinvest his 13.25 crore salary into a more versatile bowling unit.
Financial Outlook for the Auction
By parting ways with these players, the Delhi Capitals stand to recover a substantial amount of capital. The collective purse value generated from these potential releases—Karun Nair, Kuldeep Yadav, Rehan Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, and T Natarajan—totals 34.50 crores. This infusion of cash will be vital for the team as they head into the IPL 2027 auction with the goal of building a side capable of finally ending their trophy drought.
Ultimately, the management faces a difficult path ahead. Success in the IPL requires constant evolution, and the decision to release these players is a necessary, albeit difficult, step toward ensuring the Delhi Capitals become a dominant force once again in the world of professional cricket.
