Ajay Mandal continues his IPL journey with Delhi Capitals (DC) for the 2026 season. The left-handed all-rounder has been retained for ₹30 lakh, showing the franchise’s long-term belief in his all-round abilities.
Although he has not yet made his IPL debut, Mandal remains one of the most promising domestic all-rounders—known for his wicket-taking left-arm spin and powerful lower-order batting.
His impressive domestic career and consistent performances for Chhattisgarh have kept him in the spotlight, making him a strong bench-strength asset for Delhi.
Ajay Mandal IPL 2026 Price & Team
| IPL Season | Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Delhi Capitals | ₹30 lakh |
| 2025 | Delhi Capitals | ₹30 lakh |
| 2024 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹20 lakh |
DC once again backed him for IPL 2026, retaining him at the same price.
Read more: IPL 2026 Retention Players List
Who is Ajay Mandal?
Ajay Mandal is a left-arm spinner and aggressive lower-order batter from Chhattisgarh. Born on 25 February 1996, he has played at every level for his state—right from U-14 to the Ranji Trophy side.
He is especially known for:
- Consistent wicket-taking in First-Class cricket
- A historic unbeaten 241* in the Ranji Trophy as a No. 8 batter
- Strong all-round performances in the 2022–23 Ranji season
- Being the all-time leading wicket-taker for Chhattisgarh in First-Class cricket
His domestic résumé made him a strong pick for IPL sides, earning contracts from CSK earlier and now back-to-back with DC.
Ajay Mandal IPL Career Summary
Although he is yet to debut in IPL, he has been part of major teams and brings strong domestic experience.
IPL Matches & Basic Stats
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| IPL Matches | 0 |
| IPL Runs | – |
| IPL Wickets | – |
| IPL Debut | Yet to debut |
| Role | All-rounder |
| Batting Style | Left-handed |
| Bowling Style | Left-arm orthodox |
Ajay Mandal Profile – Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ajay Mandal |
| Date of Birth | 25 February 1996 |
| Age (2025) | 29 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Team (IPL 2026) | Delhi Capitals |
| Role | All-rounder |
| Batting Style | Left-handed |
| Bowling Style | Left-arm orthodox |
Domestic Career Highlights
Ajay Mandal is already a well-established name in India’s domestic circuit.
Key Achievements
- Leading wicket-taker for Chhattisgarh in First-Class cricket
- Took 7 wickets on his Ranji debut
- Scored an extraordinary 241 as a No. 8 batter*
- Took 29 wickets in the 2022–23 Ranji Trophy (best season)
- Consistently delivers with bat and ball in red-ball cricket
His all-round strength is what keeps IPL franchises interested.
Why DC Retained Ajay Mandal for IPL 2026
Delhi Capitals have shown faith in Ajay Mandal for multiple reasons:
1. Strong Domestic All-Rounder
He is a proven performer in First-Class cricket with both ball and bat.
2. Valuable Left-Arm Spin Option
IPL teams always look for left-arm spinners who can bowl in middle overs.
3. Lower-Order Power Hitter
His ability to play fearless attacking shots adds depth to DC’s batting lineup.
4. Affordable & Long-Term Prospect
At ₹30 lakh, he is a high-value player with long-term potential.
Read more: IPL 2026 Auction Players List: All Teams
Ajay Mandal IPL Auction History
| Year | Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | CSK | ₹20 lakh |
| 2025 | DC | ₹30 lakh |
| 2026 | DC (Retained) | ₹30 lakh |
Future Outlook for IPL 2026
Ajay Mandal will be aiming for:
- His maiden IPL debut
- A chance to showcase his left-arm spin in the power-hitting era
- Proving his hitting ability in the lower middle order
- Becoming a reliable all-round option for Delhi Capitals
The 2026 season could be the breakthrough year he has been preparing for.
Conclusion
Ajay Mandal enters IPL 2026 as a promising all-round talent retained by Delhi Capitals. With strong domestic records, exceptional all-round skills, and the confidence of his franchise, he stands on the verge of a potential breakthrough season.
He remains a player to watch—especially if DC gives him opportunities in spin-friendly conditions.
