WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Set to Name New Captain, World Champion Cricketer Likely to Lead

New Delhi: Delhi Capitals are preparing to appoint a new captain ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season. Reports suggest that Jemimah Rodrigues may replace Meg Lanning in leading the franchise.

Delhi Capitals in Search of Leadership
Delhi Capitals reached the finals in the first three WPL seasons but could not clinch the title. During the fourth season’s auction, current captain Meg Lanning was bought by UP Warriors, leaving Delhi in need of a new leader. The squad also includes South African star and World Cup 2025 finalist captain Laura Wolvaardt.

Jemimah Rodrigues to Take Charge
According to Cricbuzz reports, Jemimah Rodrigues is likely to be named the new captain. Despite the presence of experienced players like Wolvaardt, the franchise appears ready to entrust Rodrigues with leadership responsibilities. She has been serving as the team’s vice-captain and was retained by Delhi ahead of the auction. Notably, she was the first player Delhi bid for in the inaugural WPL season. The franchise is expected to announce the new captain officially today.

Franchise Favors Indian Leadership
Speaking at the WPL 2026 player auction last month, Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal hinted at promoting Rodrigues. Following the signing of South African captain Wolvaardt, Jindal said in a mid-auction press conference, “We are very clear that we want an Indian captain. We have made up our minds.”

Rodrigues in Top Form
Jemimah Rodrigues has played 27 matches over three WPL seasons, scoring 507 runs in 24 innings at an average of 28 and a strike rate of 140. She has been in excellent form recently, including an unbeaten 127 in the 2025 Women’s World Cup semifinal that secured India’s victory. In the first T20 match against Sri Lanka, she scored an unbeaten half-century to ensure another win for India.

With her consistent performances and proven leadership potential, Rodrigues is poised to lead Delhi Capitals into the WPL 2026 season with high expectations.