IPL 2026: DC vs GT Playing XI, Match No. 14 Preview & Fantasy Tips

Samira Vishwas

Tezzbuzz|08-04-2026

The Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to host the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 14 of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) on April 8. Scheduled for 7:30 PM IST at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, this encounter pits a surging Delhi side against a Gujarat team desperate to open their account.

The Delhi Capitals enter this contest with an unblemished record, having secured two consecutive wins against LSG and MI. In stark contrast, the 2022 champions, the Gujarat Titans, are reeling from two narrow defeats against the Punjab Kings and the Rajasthan Royals, leaving them hungry for their first points of the season.

What is the Context of the DC vs GT match?

The primary narrative for the Delhi Capitals is their tactical evolution under captain Axar Patel. The middle order has become their greatest strength, with young sensation Sameer Rizvi currently holding the Orange Cap after a match-winning 90 against MI. DC’s top order has struggled in the form of KL Rahul and Nitish Rana. Meanwhile, Pathum Nissanka started with a score of 1 before hitting crucial runs in DC’s previous contest. DC’s bowling unit, by the variations of Lungi Ngidi and the precision of Mukesh Kumar, has consistently stifled opposition.

For the Gujarat Titans, the focus is on a much-needed boost with the return of captain Shubman Gill, who has recovered from a muscle spasm. While Sai Sudharsan has been a pillar of consistency at the top, the Titans’ middle order and high-profile bowling attack, including Rashid Khan and Mohammed Siraj, have struggled to close out tight games. A win in Delhi is crucial to prevent their campaign from spiraling early.

A look at the H2H record

The head-to-head record between the Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans is incredibly tight. In their 7 meetings so far, the Gujarat Titans hold a slight 4–3 edge over the Delhi Capitals.

GT have enjoyed playing in Delhi, having won two of their three encounters at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. This includes a dominant 10-wicket victory in the 2025 season. However, with DC’s current winning streak and GT’s winless start to 2026, the momentum is firmly with the home side as they look to level the overall rivalry.

DC – Probable Playing XI

KL Rahul (wk): The experienced opener is looking for a big score after a quiet start to the 2026 season.

Pathum Nissanka: The Sri Lankan scored a fluent 44 against the Mumbai Indians. Before that, he managed 1 run against LSG.

Nitish Rana: A veteran presence in the top order who adds left-handed stability. However, he has failed to shine in both outings this season.

Axar Patel (c): Leading with poise, Axar has been exceptional with both his captaincy and his tight left-arm spin.

Tristan Stubbs: The South African powerhouse serves as a reliable finisher in the middle-to-lower order.

David Miller: “Killer Miller” provides the necessary firepower to accelerate in the death overs. He has a crucial role to play.

Vipraj Nigam: A rising talent who has contributed effectively with his bowling in the opening games.

Lungi Ngidi: The Proteas pacer has been the pick of the bowlers with his clever use of slower balls.

Kuldeep Yadav: The premier wrist-spinner remains DC’s primary weapon for middle-over breakthroughs.

T Natarajan: The “Yorker King” has shouldered the responsibility of death bowling with great success.

Mukesh Kumar: A disciplined seamer who has been vital in picking up Powerplay wickets.

Impact Player: Sameer Rizvi (The current Orange Cap holder, known for his explosive middle-order cameos).

Player to watch out for (Sameer Rizvi): After his 90-run masterclass against MI, Rizvi is the most feared young batter in the DC lineup.

GT – Probable Playing XI

Shubman Gill (c): Returning from injury, the skipper will be eager to lead from the front at the top of the order.

Sai Sudharsan: The backbone of the GT batting lineup, coming off a solid 73-run knock against RR.

Jos Buttler (wk): The explosive Englishman remains a constant threat during the powerplay. GT need a vital knock from the veteran Englishman.

Washington Sundar: Provides all-round balance with his off-spin and handy batting. He can be used as a floater.

Glenn Phillips: A high-impact player capable of changing the game with both bat and his athletic fielding.

Shahrukh Khan: Tasked with the role of the primary Indian finisher in the middle order.

Rahul Tewatia: The veteran “iceman” thrives in high-pressure chase situations. He needs to step up in that finishing role.

Rashid Khan: The world-class leg-spinner will be looking to regain his wicket-taking touch on the Delhi surface.

Kagiso Rabada: The South African speedster leads the pace attack with raw pace and bounce.

Ashok Sharma: A young pacer who has impressed with his raw speed in the initial games.

Mohammed Siraj: The premier Indian fast bowler looking to find early swing with the new ball.

Impact Player: Prasidh Krishna (A key pace option to bolster the bowling depth during the middle overs).

Player to watch out for (Sai Sudharsan): His consistency has been the silver lining for GT, and he has a phenomenal historical record at this venue.

Dream11 Strategy & Top Picks

Top Batters for Dream11

Sameer Rizvi and Sai Sudharsan are essential form picks. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler are high-ceiling options if they find their rhythm early. KL Rahul remains a solid choice for wicket-keeping points.

Best All-Rounders to Boost Points

Axar Patel is a must-have for his four overs and batting potential. Washington Sundar offers dual-point potential on a track that can assist spin.

Bowlers to Watch in Dream11

Lungi Ngidi is a specialist in these conditions. Rashid Khan and Kuldeep Yadav are perennial threats, while Mukesh Kumar is a great value pick for powerplay wickets.

Captaincy & Vice-Captaincy: Sameer Rizvi and Sai Sudharsan are the top form-based choices. For a more traditional approach, Shubman Gill (C) and Axar Patel (VC) are reliable anchors for your team.

Pitch Report & Venue Conditions

The Arun Jaitley Stadium is traditionally a spin-friendly venue, but in the 2026 season, it has played as a batting paradise under lights. The boundaries are relatively short, making it a high-scoring ground once batters are set.

The weather forecast suggests a warm evening with high humidity (near 70%), which will bring heavy dew into play. There is also a minor risk of thunderstorms in the evening. Consequently, winning the toss and bowling first is the clear tactical advantage to avoid the “wet ball” struggle in the second innings.

Match Prediction – Who Has the Upper Hand?

Delhi Capitals start as favourites given their clinical form and the incredible run of Sameer Rizvi. However, the return of Gill could be the spark the Gujarat Titans need to get their first win finally. If Rashid can exploit the Delhi surface, GT could well upset the DC winning streak.

FAQs About DC vs GT Playing 11

Who are the key players in the DC vs GT clash?

For DC, all eyes are on Sameer Rizvi and Axar Patel. For GT, Sai Sudharsan and Rashid Khan are the pivotal figures.

Who is the captain for each team?

Axar Patel leads the Delhi Capitals (DC), while Shubman Gill captains the Gujarat Titans (GT).

What is the start time?

The match begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.