Delhi Capitals Eye Strong IPL 2026 Season with KL Rahul and Prithvi Shaw

As the IPL 2026 approaches, the Delhi Capitals are looking to bounce back after a near miss in the previous season. With KL Rahul confirmed as the opener, the team is considering Prithvi Shaw for the second opening spot. Irfan Pathan believes Shaw's recent performances and hunger to prove himself could be crucial for the Capitals' success. This season promises to be exciting as the team aims to secure a playoff position.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 27, 2026, 19:39 IST

Delhi Capitals Set for IPL 2026

The Delhi Capitals (DC) are gearing up for the IPL 2026, which is set to commence on March 28 (Saturday). After narrowly missing the playoffs in IPL 2025, the team is determined to make a significant impact this season. A pivotal player for the Capitals will be KL Rahul, who has been confirmed as the opening batsman. However, the identity of the second opener remains undecided. Players like Pathum Nissanka and Abhishek Porel are in contention, but former DC player and Indian pacer Irfan Pathan has suggested an intriguing option.

In a recent discussion on his YouTube channel, Irfan Pathan highlighted Abhishek Porel's impressive performances whenever he has had the opportunity to open. Nonetheless, he believes that Prithvi Shaw should be the preferred choice to partner with KL Rahul at the top of the order. 'They have the option of Abhishek Porel, who has performed really well whenever he has gotten chances. He has contributed with quick 20s and 30s so far. But I think they should go with Prithvi Shaw and give him clarity about his role,' he stated.

Irfan Pathan's Take on Prithvi Shaw

'Prithvi Shaw Will Come To Prove A Point'

DC acquired Prithvi Shaw for his base price of Rs 75 lakhs. Pathan believes that Shaw, who has been absent from the Indian Cricket Team for a while, will be eager to prove himself, which could drive him to excel. 'They got him at a very good price. He shifted to Maharashtra from Mumbai in domestic cricket. He was the highest run-scorer for Maharashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Yes, he didn’t score in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but he seems to be in good form. I think those hungry players who went unsold last year always come with a point to prove. Prithvi Shaw will come to prove a point,' Pathan remarked.

He added, 'The hungry players who have gotten dropped are very excited, but along with that, they also put a lot of pressure on themselves to perform. This pressure always leads you towards failure.'