IPL 2025: 5 DC players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries

The Delhi Capitals had a frustrating IPL 2025 season, finishing fifth in the standings with just six victories in 14 games. The DC team struggled with consistency across departments and failed to find winning momentum, even in the face of individual moments of genius.

Advertisment

The underutilization of a number of expensive players was one of the most contentious elements of their campaign. Many of them spent most of the season on the bench while earning high wages.

Here are 5 DC players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries:

1. Jake Fraser-McGurk

Jake Fraser-McGurk, who was bought back using RTM for ₹9 crore, only played in six games. At an unimpressive strike rate of 105.77 and an average of 9.17, he amassed a meager 55 runs, with a best of 38. He couldn’t show the same aggression he did in the last season and was benched for the majority of the season.

Advertisment

Although Fraser-McGurk was unable to adjust to Indian conditions, DC anticipated spectacular starts. After a string of failures during the powerplay phase, he was dropped. He was benched for most of the season because the squad eventually chose more reliable top-order hitters.

2. Sameer Rizvi

Sameer Rizvi, who was signed by DC for ₹95 lakhs, participated in 5 games and amassed 121 runs with a respectable strike rate of 153.16 and an average of 30.25.  His best score was a solid 58*, but he was unable to build on it with any more high scores.

Rizvi showed signs of promise, but his lack of experience and erratic finishing kept him on the outside.  Because of the team's preference for seasoned batters, Rizvi spent the majority of the season warming the bench due to his inability to make consistent contributions.

3. T Natarajan

Advertisment

Despite spending an incredible ₹10.75 crore, T. Natarajan merely participated in two games and bowled two overs.  He bowled three overs at an economy of 16.33, giving up 49 runs without reaching his quota.

Since Natarajan didn't fit their combination, DC was unable to include him in the starting lineup.   His lack of rhythm and rustiness forced the management to look for different pacers when they had a chance.  The limited use of Natarajan proved a huge disappointment for such a high price.

4. Dushmantha Chameera

Dushmantha Chameera of Sri Lanka was selected for ₹75 lakhs, played in 6 games, and took 4 wickets, although he was quite costly, averaging 42.70 with an economy rate of 11.40.

His job was uncertain, and the management's lack of faith was evident in the absence of full spells. Indian pacers, who provided more control, were frequently favored by DC. Chameera was frequently out of contention due to his inability to adjust to middle and death overs.

5. Donovan Ferreira

Donovan Ferreira, a South African who was acquired by DC for ₹75 lakhs, participated in just one IPL 2025 match. He made little impact with the bat or the ball, and only managed to score one run off three balls without bowling. Issues with squad balance may have contributed to his restricted opportunity, but he did not advocate for inclusion.  

Ferreira's return was not possible due to the more efficient contributions of other all-rounders. His benching demonstrated DC's lack of faith in his ability at this level, even though he was a multi-utility player.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!