Delhi Capitals went into the IPL 2026 mini-auction with a clear plan to refresh their squad after an inconsistent 2025 campaign. Although they began last season on a strong note by winning their first four matches, the team lost momentum and eventually missed out on a playoff spot. With ₹21.80 crore available and eight vacancies to fill, including five overseas slots, DC made several notable additions in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Their biggest investment was uncapped Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Dar, who was bought for ₹8.40 crore. The franchise also signed Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka for ₹4 crore, while Ben Duckett, Kyle Jamieson, Lungi Ngidi and David Miller were picked up at their base price.
Indian batters Prithvi Shaw and Sahil Parakh were also brought in at modest sums. Since opening partnerships were a major weakness in IPL 2025, DC now have multiple options to rethink their top-order strategy. Here are three opening combinations they can consider as reasons to fix that concern in IPL 2026.
KL Rahul & Ben Duckett
One of the most balanced opening pairs DC can form is KL Rahul alongside Ben Duckett. Rahul’s experience at the top of the order in the IPL is unmatched, having scored heavily while maintaining consistency over the years. His ability to anchor an innings while accelerating when required makes him a reliable choice.
Duckett, on the other hand, brings aggression and fearlessness. Though yet to make his IPL debut, the England left-hander has impressed across formats with his attacking intent. His high strike rate in T20Is shows that he can dominate bowlers early, allowing Rahul to play his natural game. This pairing offers stability mixed with explosiveness.
KL Rahul & Pathum Nissanka
Another option DC can explore is pairing Rahul with Pathum Nissanka. While Nissanka was earlier known more for his classical approach, his recent performances in franchise cricket suggest a clear shift towards aggressive stroke play.
His success in the ILT20, where he has consistently scored runs at a rapid pace, highlights his growing confidence in the shortest format. With Rahul providing assurance at one end, Nissanka can play freely and attack the bowlers during the powerplay. This combination allows DC to start steadily before shifting gears quickly.
Ben Duckett & Prithvi Shaw
For a high-risk, high-reward approach, DC could try Ben Duckett with Prithvi Shaw at the top. Both batters prefer attacking from the first ball and can put pressure on opposition bowlers immediately.
Their left-right combination further complicates bowling plans during the powerplay. Shaw’s recent domestic form shows that he still possesses the ability to play impactful innings. If this duo clicks, DC could gain early dominance and set the tone for big totals in IPL 2026.
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