3 DC players who could struggle in IPL 2026 – ft Mitchell Starc
Delhi Capitals: A Closer Look at Three Players Who Could Impact Their IPL 2026 Campaign
Mitchell Starc: The Unpredictable Asset
One of the biggest concerns for the Delhi Capitals going into the IPL 2026 season is the availability of Mitchell Starc. The former Australian T20 pacer has shown his worth in the past two seasons, being a standout performer for KKR and then for DC. However, Starc’s inconsistency and availability issues have raised red flags for the franchise.
Starc’s recent form has been impressive, but his participation in the upcoming season remains uncertain due to Cricket Australia not issuing him an NOC citing workload concerns. His potential absence could leave a significant void in the DC bowling lineup, making him a player to watch closely as the season unfolds.
T. Natarajan: The Injury Prone Threat
Another key player in the Delhi Capitals squad is T. Natarajan, whose presence in the team has been marred by frequent injuries and poor form. Despite being a big-money signing for the franchise, Natarajan has struggled to make a significant impact due to his inconsistent availability and performance.
With Starc’s uncertain status, Natarajan’s role becomes even more critical, especially in the death overs where his ability to deliver yorkers could be crucial for the team’s success. However, his fitness concerns remain a major hurdle for the Capitals as they aim for a strong showing in the upcoming season.
Abhishek Porel: The Underperforming Asset
Abhishek Porel, the Bengal wicket-keeper batter, has emerged as a key player in the Delhi Capitals lineup, providing stability in the top order. While Porel’s form has not been a major concern, his performance in the shortest format of the game has raised questions about his role in the team.
As the Capitals navigate through a challenging season without the likes of Pathum Nissanka and Ben Duckett in the overseas slots, Porel’s contributions become even more critical. His ability to anchor the top order will be essential for the team’s success, making his form a key factor in determining DC’s fortunes in the IPL 2026 season.
In conclusion, as the Delhi Capitals gear up for the IPL 2026 campaign, the performances of Mitchell Starc, T. Natarajan, and Abhishek Porel will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s success. With each player bringing a unique set of challenges and opportunities, it will be interesting to see how skipper Axar Patel manages these players and maximizes their potential on the field.
Prithvi Shaw: The Young Gun
One player who could have a significant impact on the Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2026 campaign is Prithvi Shaw. The explosive young batsman has shown great promise in previous seasons and has the potential to be a game-changer for the team. Shaw’s aggressive batting style and ability to score quick runs make him a key player in the Capitals’ lineup.
With experienced players like Shikhar Dhawan and Rishabh Pant providing stability, Shaw’s role as a dynamic opener becomes even more crucial. His performances at the top of the order could set the tone for the team’s innings and provide the momentum needed to propel the Capitals to victory.
Axar Patel: The Dependable All-Rounder
Another player to watch closely in the upcoming season is skipper Axar Patel. The all-rounder has been a consistent performer for the Delhi Capitals, contributing with both bat and ball. Patel’s ability to provide crucial breakthroughs with his left-arm spin and finish games with his handy batting lower down the order make him a valuable asset for the team.
As the leader of the team, Patel’s decision-making and tactical acumen will be crucial in guiding the Capitals to success in the IPL 2026 season. His experience and composure under pressure make him a reliable figure in the squad, someone the team can depend on in crunch situations.
Shreyas Iyer: The Returning Star
After missing the previous season due to injury, Shreyas Iyer’s return to the Delhi Capitals lineup brings a sense of anticipation and excitement. The stylish right-handed batsman was a key player for the team in the past, leading from the front with his consistent performances and astute captaincy.
Iyer’s presence in the middle order adds depth and stability to the batting lineup, giving the Capitals a solid foundation to build their innings around. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a vital cog in the team’s quest for success in the upcoming season.
As the Delhi Capitals prepare for the IPL 2026 campaign, the performances of Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel, and Shreyas Iyer will be crucial in determining the team’s fortunes. With a mix of youth and experience, the Capitals have a well-rounded squad capable of challenging for the title. It will be interesting to see how these players come together and create magic on the field under the leadership of Axar Patel.
By exploring the potential impact of players like Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel, and Shreyas Iyer, we gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play within the Delhi Capitals squad. Each player brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, adding layers of complexity and excitement to the team’s campaign in the IPL 2026 season. As fans eagerly await the action to unfold, the performances of these key players will undoubtedly be a major talking point throughout the tournament.


