The countdown to the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League has officially begun, and the Delhi Capitals have just announced their captain for the upcoming season – Axar Patel. This news comes as a bit of a surprise, given the initial speculation that the franchise might opt for KL Rahul, who has previously led both the Punjab Kings and the Lucknow Super Giants, as their captain. Now that Axar has been appointed, KL Rahul, who recently joined the Delhi team, has shared his first reaction to the news.
Axar Patel, the left-handed all-rounder, joined the Delhi Capitals in 2019 and has since played 82 matches for the team. He was retained by the team for the 2025 IPL season for a whopping 16.50 crore rupees. Meanwhile, the team’s former captain, Rishabh Pant, was released, and the franchise showed no interest in buying him back at the auction. Instead, they picked up KL Rahul for 14 crore rupees, who has already proven his mettle as a captain in the league. Reports suggest that Rahul himself declined the captaincy, paving the way for Axar Patel to take the reins.
The news of Axar’s appointment as captain was shared by the Delhi Capitals on social media, and KL Rahul was quick to respond with a heartfelt message. He commented, “Congratulations, Bapu! Wishing you all the best on this new journey, and I’m always with you.” This gesture showcases the camaraderie and respect between the two players, despite the initial speculation about who would lead the team.
Axar Patel, who made his IPL debut back in 2014, has come a long way, playing 150 matches and scoring 1653 runs, including three half-centuries. He has also taken 123 wickets in the league, making him a valuable asset to the Delhi Capitals. As the team gears up for the new season, fans are eager to see how Axar will lead the team and what strategies he will employ to bring home the championship title.
The Road Ahead for Delhi Capitals
With Axar Patel at the helm, the Delhi Capitals are looking to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season. The team has a good mix of experienced players and young talent, and Axar’s leadership will be crucial in bringing out the best in each of them. As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, one thing is certain – with Axar Patel as captain, the Delhi Capitals are ready to take on the best of the best in the Indian Premier League.
Key Players to Watch
Some key players to watch out for in the Delhi Capitals team include:
- Axar Patel – The new captain, known for his all-round skills and strategic thinking
- KL Rahul – A seasoned batsman and former captain, who will play a crucial role in the team’s batting lineup
- Other notable players – The team has a strong lineup, with a mix of experienced players and young talent, making them a force to be reckoned with in the league
As the Indian Premier League season approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see how the Delhi Capitals will perform under Axar Patel’s leadership. Will they be able to make it to the playoffs, or will they exceed expectations and bring home the championship title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – with Axar at the helm, the Delhi Capitals are ready to give it their all and make this season one to remember.