Axar Patel Set to Lead Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025

Indian all-rounder Axar Patel is reportedly set to captain the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, according to Vipul Kashyap, sports correspondent of ANI. Axar, who joined the franchise in 2019, has occasionally led the team over the past two seasons. The team promoted Axar Patel to full-time captaincy, marking a major step forward and surpassing KL Rahul, recently acquired in the mega auction.

Axar has been one of Delhi Capitals’ most consistent performers, retained as one of four key players ahead of the 2025 auction. He was also India’s vice-captain in the recent T20I series against England and played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup victory last year. Over the last two IPL seasons, Axar scored over 200 runs and took more than 10 wickets, showcasing his all-round capabilities.

Delhi Capitals bought KL Rahul for ₹14 crore, and he will likely play as a specialist batter, opening the innings. The team chose Axar Patel over Rahul for captaincy, likely due to Rahul’s limited success leading Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. Axar’s challenge will be to unify the squad and take Delhi Capitals to new heights.

The franchise, which has never won the IPL, finished a disappointing sixth last season. Following the underwhelming campaign, they made significant changes, including parting ways with Rishabh Pant. With a strong squad and new management, the Delhi Capitals aim for a turnaround under Axar Patel’s leadership, hoping to finally secure their maiden IPL title.