The Delhi Capitals, one of the most dynamic teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), have a fascinating journey marked by evolution, growth, and resilience.
With a blend of strong leadership, strategic ownership, and a global vision, this franchise has grown to become one of the most competitive teams in the IPL, consistently attracting attention from fans, investors, and cricket experts alike.
In this blog, we will delve into the ownership structure of Delhi Capitals, their leadership journey, and how they have strategically positioned themselves on the global map.
From their early days as the Delhi Daredevils to their rebranding and current ownership mix, Delhi Capitals’ story reflects how adaptability, vision, and perseverance can help a franchise grow beyond just a cricket team.
About the Delhi Capitals Owner and Team
Team Name | Delhi Capitals |
League | IPL |
State | Delhi |
City | Delhi |
Team Owner | GMR Group & JSW Group |
Team Captain | Axar Patel |
Team Coach | Hemang Badani |
Homeground | Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi |
IPL Titles | 0 |
Website |
Who Owns Delhi Capitals? A Breakdown of the Ownership Structure
The ownership of Delhi Capitals is a mix of two significant corporate entities: GMR Group and JSW Group.
Both groups bring different strengths to the franchise, playing a crucial role in its financial success, brand expansion, and operational stability.
1. GMR Group – The Infrastructure Giant
The GMR Group, one of India’s leading infrastructure companies, holds a 50% stake in the Delhi Capitals.
GMR is involved in a variety of sectors, including airports, power generation, and transportation. The group’s influence in the IPL goes beyond its financial investment.
With a vision to enhance sports infrastructure, GMR helped build the Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly known as Feroz Shah Kotla) into a world-class cricket facility, which serves as Delhi Capitals’ home ground.
The GMR Group’s leadership, headed by Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao, has been instrumental in shaping the direction of the franchise.
They have not only driven its growth within the IPL but have also facilitated its entry into international markets, solidifying Delhi Capitals as a globally recognized brand.
2. JSW Group – A Dynamic Investment Partner
The JSW Group, which also holds a 50% stake in the franchise, is a prominent player in steel manufacturing, energy, cement, and infrastructure.
Under the leadership of Parth Jindal, JSW has expanded its influence in the world of sports.
Their foray into cricket ownership has enabled the Delhi Capitals to benefit from their expertise in business operations and strategic partnerships.
JSW’s involvement with Delhi Capitals is more than just financial; they have been pivotal in creating long-term strategies for the team’s growth.
Their global experience in managing large-scale businesses has significantly contributed to the expansion of the Delhi Capitals’ brand both in India and internationally.
A History of Ownership: From Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals’ journey in the IPL began in 2008 under the name Delhi Daredevils, with a vision to create a competitive team. Over the years, the franchise has faced ups and downs, both on and off the field.
However, its ownership and leadership have always strived to turn challenges into opportunities.
2008-2017: Early Days and Challenges
The early days of the franchise were marked by highs and lows. While Delhi Daredevils consistently performed well in the league stages, they struggled to secure an IPL title.
Despite having several star players like Virender Sehwag, AB de Villiers, and David Warner, the team failed to capitalize on their potential.
During this time, the franchise was owned solely by the GMR Group, with the team struggling to build a strong fan base and identity.
The Delhi Daredevils never managed to cross the semi-finals hurdle, and this period was marked by growing frustration among fans and analysts alike.
2018-Present: Rebranding and Strategic Growth
In 2018, the franchise underwent a major rebranding, changing its name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals. This transformation was a fresh start, not just for the franchise’s name but for its approach to the game and business.
The rebranding reflected a shift in strategy, focusing on long-term growth, solidifying fan engagement, and building a competitive team.
With a new leadership structure and key player acquisitions, Delhi Capitals immediately became a top contender in the IPL.
Leadership: Key Figures Behind Delhi Capitals’ Success
Delhi Capitals’ journey in the IPL has been marked by several pivotal figures who have shaped the team’s destiny.
From the on-field captaincy to the coaching staff, each leadership decision has played a crucial role in the team’s rise.
1. Axar Patel – The New Captain
In 2025, Axar Patel took over the captaincy of Delhi Capitals. Axar, a seasoned all-rounder, has been with the franchise for several years and was seen as the ideal choice to lead the team into the future.
His calm demeanor, excellent tactical mind, and ability to lead by example make him a natural fit for the role. Under his leadership, Delhi Capitals are looking to build on their success and clinch their maiden IPL title.
2. Ricky Ponting – The Tactical Genius
Ricky Ponting, one of Australia’s greatest captains, has been the head coach of Delhi Capitals since 2018. His vast experience in leadership, cricket strategy, and mentorship has had a profound impact on the team.
Ponting’s tactical brilliance has helped Delhi Capitals maximize the potential of their young players and integrate them with seasoned veterans, ensuring the team remains competitive year after year.
Ponting’s ability to handle pressure situations, combined with his leadership qualities, has made him one of the key figures in Delhi Capitals’ rise.
3. Hemang Badani – Head Coach of Men’s Team
Hemang Badani, a former cricketer, took over as the head coach of the men’s team in 2024. He is responsible for shaping the team’s strategies, enhancing player performance, and ensuring smooth operations.
Badani’s coaching philosophy centers around providing young players with opportunities while maintaining a balance between experience and youth.
Global Expansion: Delhi Capitals Beyond IPL
Delhi Capitals have a clear vision of becoming a global cricketing brand. With investments in international cricket and a growing fan base, the franchise is steadily expanding its presence beyond the IPL.
Expansion into International Leagues
Delhi Capitals have been keen on tapping into global markets, particularly through their investments in international cricket leagues.
Their parent company, GMR Group, has been instrumental in acquiring a stake in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), which gives Delhi Capitals a foothold in the South Asian market.
Additionally, the Delhi Capitals have shown interest in entering newer cricket markets such as The Hundred in England and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), allowing the team to expand its scouting network and increase its visibility globally.
Women’s Cricket and WPL Investments
In addition to their focus on the men’s IPL team, Delhi Capitals have made substantial investments in women’s cricket. In the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Delhi Capitals are one of the most successful franchises, securing back-to-back finals in 2023 and 2024.
Their leadership under Meg Lanning has proved to be successful, and the team continues to grow its influence in the women’s cricketing sphere.
The WPL is a significant platform for promoting women’s cricket, and Delhi Capitals are playing a key role in its development, providing players with the resources and support needed to shine on the international stage.
People Also Ask:
Q. Who owns Delhi Capitals?
Ans: Delhi Capitals are jointly owned by the GMR Group and the JSW Group, with each group holding a 50% stake in the franchise.
Q. Who is the captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025?
Ans: The captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 is Axar Patel.
Q. Who is the head coach of Delhi Capitals?
Ans: The head coach of the Delhi Capitals is Hemang Badani, who took over in 2024.
Q. Has Delhi Capitals won the IPL title?
Ans: No, Delhi Capitals have reached the final once (in 2020) but have yet to win the IPL title.
More to read: