Before the November 17, 2026 retention deadline could arrive, Delhi Capitals moved to end all trade speculation by formally shutting their trading window. Both Axar Patel and Ashutosh Sharma will stay at the franchise, with the club making their stance clear.

Axar had drawn attention from Chennai Super Kings during the window, while Ashutosh reportedly attracted enquiries from other franchises as well. The announcement puts both conversations firmly to rest. Axar captained Delhi Capitals through IPL 2026, and his continued presence alongside Ashutosh gives the side a settled core heading into the next season.

"There will be no more trades as far as Delhi Capitals are concerned," a DC official was quoted as saying by India Today.

How did Axar Patel and Ashutosh Sharma perform in IPL 2026?

Ashutosh Sharma was among the most destructive batters in IPL 2026, striking at 181.91 while accumulating 171 runs from just eight matches. That kind of impact at the lower order made him an attractive proposition for rival franchises, yet Delhi Capitals were unwilling to let him go.

Axar's value to the side stretched across both departments. His bowling brought 11 wickets from 13 innings at an economy rate of 8.18, keeping pressure on opposing batters throughout the tournament. As an honourable mention, his batting figures also deserve recognition: 173 runs from 14 matches at an average of 19.22 and a strike rate of 131.06 rounded off a productive all-round campaign for the captain.

What does the squad picture look like for Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2027?

Away from the trade window news, Delhi Capitals have reshaped their batting order by bringing Rishabh Pant back to the franchise through a deal with Lucknow Super Giants. Pant's return adds considerable depth and experience to a side that already has Axar and Ashutosh secured.

KL Rahul has also joined Delhi Capitals and has been identified as a leadership option for the franchise. However, Axar's retention does not automatically settle the captaincy question for IPL 2027. Delhi Capitals are yet to confirm who will lead the side in the upcoming season, leaving that decision open even as the broader shape of their squad becomes clearer.