Axar Patel has been named the captain of Delhi Capitals (DC) for the IPL 2025 season. He has been a part of the DC team since 2019 and was their highest retention at INR 16.50 crore prior to the mega auction held last November. Although his experience in captaincy is limited, he was appointed as India's T20I vice-captain in January of this year.
At 31 years old, Axar has captained his state team, Gujarat, in 23 matches across various formats, with his most recent leadership roles occurring in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy during the 2024-25 season. He also led DC in a crucial IPL match last year, which they lost to RCB, resulting in their failure to qualify for the playoffs, while Rishabh Pant was serving a suspension for a slow over-rate. With Pant's departure from the DC franchise before the mega auction, Axar emerged as the most seasoned player on the team. Over six seasons, he has participated in 82 matches for DC, scoring 235 runs last year at an average close to 30, while also taking 11 wickets with an economy rate of 7.65. "It is a tremendous honor to be appointed as the captain of the Delhi Capitals, and I am sincerely thankful to our owners and support staff for their trust in me," Axar expressed. "My journey with the Capitals has contributed significantly to my growth as both a cricketer and an individual, and I feel prepared and confident to lead this team into the future."
Our coaching staff and scouts have excelled during the mega auction, successfully assembling a well-rounded and formidable team with significant potential. The presence of numerous leaders within the squad is advantageous for me, and I eagerly anticipate joining the team as we aim for a highly successful season for the Capitals, bolstered by the unwavering support and affection of our fans.
The roster includes KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis, both of whom have previously captained other IPL franchises, along with senior international player Mitchell Starc. "We are thrilled to announce Axar as the captain of the Delhi Capitals. Since joining the Capitals family in 2019, he has been a vital part of our team and exemplifies the principles upon which we are founded," stated DC chairman Kiran Kumar Grandhi. "This appointment signifies a natural advancement in his leadership journey—from serving as our vice-captain for two seasons to now taking on the captaincy. He has consistently risen to the occasion for us. Axar has the unwavering support of our coaching staff and the experienced leadership group, and I wish him every success in this new role, in which I am confident he will thrive."
Parth Jindal, co-owner of Delhi Capitals, remarked on his firsthand experience with Axar's development as both a cricketer and a leader within the team. "I selected Axar in 2019, and our connection extends beyond the realm of cricket. Over the past two years, I have observed him serve as the team's vice-captain, and it is evident that he is a cherished figure in the dressing room. I am confident that he will inspire the players in the squad."
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)