What Did DC Coach Jonathan Batty Say About Player Retentions for WPL 2026?
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Synopsis
In an emotional reveal, DC head coach Jonathan Batty discusses the challenges of releasing players while expressing optimism in the retained core for WPL 2026. Will this strong lineup be enough to secure the trophy this time around? Read on for insights into the team's strategic direction for the upcoming season.
Key Takeaways
- DC has retained a strong core of players.
- The team has consistently reached the finals in all WPL editions.
- Emotional challenges accompany player releases.
- Upcoming mega auction presents a critical opportunity.
- The focus remains on building around retained talents.
New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) Head coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC), Jonathan Batty, shared his feelings on the emotional difficulty of parting ways with certain players while expressing optimism regarding the retained squad consisting of Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, and Niki Prasad for the upcoming WPL 2026.
Jemimah and Shafali played crucial roles in India's triumph at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, delivering exceptional performances during both the semifinal and final. Niki showed promise in her debut season at WPL this year, having led India to victory in the 2025 Women’s U19 T20 World Cup, while Marizanne and Annabel exhibited stellar all-around skills in the recent 50-over global championship.
“We’ve showcased remarkable cricket throughout the past three seasons. This was a closely-knit group that functioned effectively as a unit, and that synergy was evident in our achievements. It’s never easy to release players after sharing such a successful journey, but that’s part of the WPL and the challenges it brings,” Batty remarked.
“We’re delighted with the players we’ve retained, and our next steps focus on constructing the remainder of the squad around this solid foundation. The auction ahead is full of potential, and we eagerly anticipate what’s in store,” Batty added shortly after the retention announcements.
DC stands as the sole franchise to have reached the finals in every edition of the WPL and is poised for the 2026 WPL mega auction scheduled in New Delhi on November 27, with 13 slots available. “Parting ways with members from such a consistent and high-performing group is challenging; however, that’s the reality of a mega auction. Each player has significantly contributed to our journey thus far,” he stated.
“Although we narrowly missed out on claiming the trophy, we take immense pride in what this group has accomplished over the initial three seasons. We are highly satisfied with our retained players. Jemimah, Shafali, Marizanne, Annabel, and Niki form a robust core for us to build upon,” Batty noted.
“I extend my best wishes to all players, both retained and released, as they embark on the next chapter of their careers. We are keenly anticipating the inaugural WPL mega auction. It promises to be thrilling, and we aspire that this is the year we advance further,” stated DC co-owner Parth Jindal.
Among those released are Meg Lanning, Alice Capsey, Jess Jonassen, Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy, and Shikha Pandey. “The WPL has been an extraordinary journey of progress for both the sport and women’s cricket in India. We take great pride in how this team has performed over the first three seasons - consistently reaching the finals and setting standards of professionalism and team spirit,” Batty articulated.
“As we embark on a new cycle, our focus remains on developing the incredible talent we have and enhancing it. The upcoming mega auction signifies an exciting new phase, and we are confident that the Delhi Capitals family will continue to inspire fans as we strive to secure the trophy this year,” concluded DC co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi.
DC Retained Players List: Jemimah Rodrigues (INR 2.2 crore), Shafali Verma (INR 2.2 crore), Marizanne Kapp (INR 2.2 crore), Annabel Sutherland (INR 2.2 crore), and Niki Prasad (INR 50 lakh)
DC Released Players List: Meg Lanning, Sneha Deepthi, Alice Capsey, Arundhati Reddy, Jess Jonassen, Minnu Mani, N Sree Charani, Shikha Pandey, Nandini Kashyap, Sarah Bryce, Taniyaa Bhatia, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu
Point of View
I acknowledge the significant strides made by the Delhi Capitals in the WPL. Their consistent performance has set new benchmarks in women's cricket. This phase of player retention and the upcoming auction will shape their future, and there's a palpable excitement surrounding the team's direction. The balance between nurturing talent and making strategic moves will be crucial for their success.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the retained players for DC in WPL 2026?
The retained players for Delhi Capitals in WPL 2026 are Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Annabel Sutherland, and Niki Prasad.
What challenges does the DC coach face in the auction?
Coach Jonathan Batty faces the challenge of releasing players while trying to maintain a strong core group, as well as filling the 13 available slots during the mega auction.
How has DC performed in previous WPL seasons?
Delhi Capitals have reached the finals in all three editions of the WPL, showcasing consistent high performance.
What are the implications of the mega auction for DC?
The mega auction represents a critical opportunity for DC to strengthen their squad and potentially secure the trophy in WPL 2026.
Who are some notable players that were released by DC?
Notable players released by Delhi Capitals include Meg Lanning, Alice Capsey, Jess Jonassen, Radha Yadav, and Shikha Pandey.
