IPL 2026: 3 players DC underutilised this season (Photo source: X/IPL)

Delhi Capitals (DC) once again endured a disappointing campaign in the Indian Premier League(IPL) 2026. Despite assembling a squad packed with international stars such as KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, Lungi Ngidi, Pathum Nissanka, and Tristan Stubbs, the franchise failed to secure a playoff berth and fell short of ending its long wait for an IPL title.

While several players delivered notable performances throughout the season, there were also a few talented individuals who did not receive enough opportunities to showcase their abilities.

Here are three players underutilised by Delhi Capitals: 3) Nitish Rana

Experienced left-handed batter Nitish Ranashowed glimpses of his quality whenever he was given a chance. However, Delhi Capitals did not back him consistently despite some encouraging performances. Rana featured in nine matches and scored 225 runs at an impressive strike rate of 151.00.

One of his standout performances came against Punjab Kings, where he stitched together a crucial partnership with KL Rahul and demonstrated his ability to anchor as well as accelerate an innings.

Given his experience and versatility, Rana could have been used more flexibly in the batting order. A longer run in the playing XI might have allowed him to contribute even more significantly to the team's fortunes.

2) Ashutosh Sharma Ashutosh-Sharma. (Photo source: X/IPL)

Ashutosh Sharma is another player who arguably deserved greater responsibility during the season.

The hard-hitting batter has built a reputation as a dependable finisher over the past two IPL campaigns, and he continued to impress whenever called upon in 2026.

In eight matches, Ashutosh scored 171 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 181.91, underlining his ability to score quickly under pressure. Despite his strong returns, he was largely confined to the finisher's role. Promoting him higher up the order on a few occasions could have provided him with more deliveries to make an impact and potentially strengthened Delhi's middle-order batting. His aggressive approach and confidence could have been valuable assets in crucial matches.

1) T Natarajan T. Natarajan - Source: IPL/BCCI

Left-arm pacer T Natarajanalso falls into the category of underutilised players. Although he featured in 10 matches and picked up five wickets, his contributions went beyond the numbers.

Natarajan was regularly entrusted with bowling difficult overs, including at the death, where his trademark yorkers and clever variations often troubled opposition batters. While wickets did not come consistently, he frequently created pressure and restricted scoring opportunities.

Given his experience and skill set, Delhi Capitals could have shown greater faith in him and provided a more defined role throughout the campaign.