Delhi Capitals (DC) have ushered in a new era by appointing Jemimah Rodrigues as captain ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, replacing former skipper Meg Lanning, who was not retained for the upcoming season. The announcement marks a significant leadership shift for a franchise that has reached the final in all three WPL editions but is still chasing its maiden title.
The decision was revealed on JioHotstar, where DC co-owner Parth Jindal formally handed Rodrigues the captaincy jersey. For the 24-year-old India star, the moment carried deep emotional weight, having been one of DC’s foundational players since the inaugural WPL auction in 2023. “To be trusted with this role feels very special,” Rodrigues said, pledging to lead the team with pride, dignity, and relentless commitment.
Rodrigues had long been viewed as a natural successor, serving as vice-captain until last season and emerging as one of the five players retained by DC alongside Marizanne Kapp, Shafali Verma, Annabel Sutherland and Niki Prasad. Jindal had earlier underlined the franchise’s intent to appoint an Indian captain, and Rodrigues’ elevation aligns perfectly with that vision.
Statistically and tactically, Rodrigues has been central to DC’s WPL journey. She has featured in all 27 matches played by the franchise, scoring 507 runs at an average of 28.16, with a top score of 69. She stands third on DC’s all-time run charts, behind only Lanning and Shafali, and has increasingly taken on the finisher’s role over the past two seasons.
Her appointment is further strengthened by a stellar 2025 on the international stage. Rodrigues was among India’s top run-scorers across formats and played a defining role in India’s historic maiden ODI World Cup triumph, smashing a match-winning 127* against Australia in the semi-final before India defeated South Africa in the final.
Delhi Capitals will open their WPL 2026 campaign against Mumbai Indians on January 10, 2026, once again entering the season as strong contenders. With a proven core, renewed leadership, and one of India’s brightest cricketing minds at the helm, DC will hope that Rodrigues’ captaincy can finally take them one step further, from finalists to champions.
