Delhi Capitals (DC) is one of those teams backed by robust resources. After a strong start in the previous edition, winning five games in a row, the DC's middle-order struggled in the second half of the competition.

Eventually, the franchise achieved only seven victories in 14 games, ending fifth in the standings and missing the playoffs by a mere point. As a significant restructuring mode, here are the top three players to look for in the upcoming 2026 IPL Mini Auction. 

1. Quinton de Kock

The DC arsenal may be interested in Quinton de Kock after releasing Faf du Plessis for one of their opening berths. They may be looking for an experienced overseas opener, and the Proteas international fits the bill wonderfully. 

The Axar Patel-led side has two strong Indian keepers in Abishek Porel and KL Rahul, so Quinton may not make the starting lineup, but he is a fantastic backup option. His IPL records include 115 matches in which he has scored 3309 runs at an impressive average of over 30, including 24 half-centuries and three centuries. 

2. Akash Deep

Akash Deep enters the auction after showing continuous growth over the last two IPL seasons. His career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru included fast new-ball movement and assured death-overs outings, both of which are highly regarded in domestic pacers.

Several teams have expressed concerns about their Indian pace stocks following releases and injuries, positioning Akash Deep as a dependable, phase-versatile option for the DC's strong pace unit, which will expand the pacer's diversity with Mitchell Starc, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, and D Chameera. In 15 matches, he has scalped ten wickets with a decent economy. 

3. Abhinav Manohar

Abhinav Manohar is recognised for his natural six-hitting talent, lower-middle-order role, and solid domestic credentials. Though Manohar has only played 27 IPL matches and scored 292 runs, he has been a part of the league for the past four years and has gained the necessary expertise; all he needs now is to execute it well.

It's time to put those lessons into action as he joins DC's target players. In addition, his highlight will be his ability to dismantle any bowling onslaught while being consistent.