Allrounder Axar Patel has been appointed captain of Delhi Capitals (DC) for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL). Patel’s appointment follows Rishabh Pant’s departure from the team ahead of the mega auction. Rishabh Pant has moved to Lucknow Super Giants after being snapped up by the franchise during the auction in November. As for Patel, he has had a long journey with DC, having been with the franchise since 2019.
He was retained by the franchise for INR 16.50 crore ahead of the mega auction last November. Patel, meanwhile, does not carry a lot of leadership experience. However, he led DC in a IPL match last year in the absence of Pant, who was on the sidelines serving a ban for slow-over rate. Recently, Patel had a pulsating campaign at the Champions Trophy, contributing immensely in India’s title victory.
“It is my absolute honour to captain the Delhi Capitals, and I’m deeply grateful to our owners and support staff for placing their faith in me. I’ve grown as a cricketer and a human being during my time here at the Capitals, and I feel ready and confident to lead this side going forward. Our coaches and scouts have done a superb job at the mega auction by putting together a balanced and robust squad which has tremendous potential. We have plenty of leaders in the group which is also very helpful for me, and I can’t wait to join the team as we look forward to a very successful season for the Capitals, backed by the immense love and support of our fans,” Axar Patel said on his appointment.