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Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell has blamed the team’s unstable batting lineup for its disappointing IPL 2026 campaign.
New Delhi
Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell has admitted that the franchise’s inconsistent batting performances have been the biggest reason behind the team’s disappointing campaign in IPL 2026. With the tournament entering its crucial phase, Bell said the lack of stability in the batting order has prevented Delhi from building momentum and competing consistently against stronger teams.
Delhi Capitals are currently placed eighth on the points table with only 10 points from 12 matches, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. Ahead of their crucial clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Bell stressed that successful IPL teams are usually built around a settled batting lineup, something Delhi have struggled to achieve this season.
According to Bell, frequent changes in combinations and the failure of middle-order batters to deliver consistently have hurt the side in pressure situations. He pointed out that the top four teams in the league have largely maintained stable batting units, allowing players to settle into defined roles and perform with confidence.
“One of the biggest differences when you look at the top teams is the consistency in their batting lineup. We are still working towards finding that stability,” Bell said during the pre-match interaction.
Despite the disappointing campaign, Bell identified KL Rahul as one of the few major positives for Delhi Capitals this season. Rahul has not only scored important runs but has also improved his strike rate significantly, answering criticism about his scoring tempo in T20 cricket.
Bell praised Rahul for adapting his game and showing greater attacking intent but admitted that the team cannot depend entirely on one batter. He added that no other player in the lineup has managed to make himself “undroppable” through consistent performances.
With only a few league matches remaining, Delhi Capitals now face immense pressure to win their remaining fixtures to stay alive in the playoff race. Their encounter against Rajasthan Royals could prove decisive in determining whether their IPL 2026 journey continues or ends prematurely.