With the IPL 2026 auction fast approaching, Delhi Capitals (DC) once again find themselves in the spotlight as fans speculate about big-money buys and potential squad overhauls. Over the years, DC have built a reputation for aggressive bidding, often targeting marquee Indian and overseas stars to strengthen their lineup. From local icons like Gautam Gambhir and Dinesh Karthik to international stalwarts like Mahela Jayawarde, and David Warnerthe franchise has consistently invested heavily in top talent. Their evolving approach reflects both the team’s ambitions and the IPL’s changing economic dynamics.

From Yuvraj Singh to KL Rahul: A big-money tradition

The Capitals’ first major purchase came in 2008 when Gautam Gambhir joined the side for 2.9 crore, establishing himself as a core player in the early years of the tournament. In subsequent seasons, DC continued to explore overseas options such as Australian all-rounder Andrew McDonald (2009) and pacer Dirk Nannes (2010)both of whom brought diversity and balance to the squad. By 2011, with the introduction of mega auctions, DC’s strategy grew more aggressive, evident in their 8.74-crore deal for Irfan Pathana move aimed at bolstering the all-round department.

The transformation truly intensified in the following years. In 2012, Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawarde became DC’s most expensive recruit at 11.76 crore, symbolizing the franchise’s pursuit of leadership and batting depth. The trend continued with Dinesh Karthik’s 12.5-crore signing in 2014, but the real headline came in 2015 when DC broke the bank for Yuvraj Singh at 16 crore — then the highest bid in IPL history. Although Yuvraj had mixed returns, the move reflected DC’s intent to match the financial muscle of other franchises.

Subsequent years saw changing strategies and smarter auctions. The 2016 season brought Pawan Negi for 8.5 crore, followed by the arrival of South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada in 2017 for 5 crore, who became the spearhead of their bowling attack. Glenn Maxwell (9 crore in 2018) and Colin Ingram (6.4 crore in 2019) highlighted their continued focus on power-hitters. DC’s emphasis on T20 specialists grew evident with the acquisitions of Shimron Hetmyer (7.75 crore in 2020) and Tom Curran (5.25 crore in 2021), both known for their finishing capabilities.

Warner’s 6.25-crore deal in 2022 marked one of the smartest buys, giving DC both experience and stability at the top. The trend of investing in promising Indian talents followed, with Mukesh Kumar (5.5 crore in 2023) and wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra (7.2 crore in 2024) joining the squad. Their latest and possibly most strategic acquisition came in 2025 when DC roped in KL Rahul for a staggering 14 crore, signalling their pursuit of a proven match-winner capable of leading the side into the next phase.

DC’s most expensive player at each IPL auction