Axar Patel as Delhi Capitals Captain? IPL 2025 Could Make History with an Indian All-Rounder Leading the Team

As the anticipation for IPL 2025 heats up, Delhi Capitals (DC) might be on the brink of making history by appointing an Indian all-rounder as their full-time captain—a rarity in IPL’s long-standing tradition. If reports hold true, the franchise could entrust Axar Patel with the captaincy reins, a move that would not only be historic but could also redefine the role of Indian all-rounders in the IPL.

Axar Patel’s Journey to Delhi Capitals Captaincy

Delhi Capitals’ management, according to several media reports, is strongly considering as their next captain. In IPL 2024, Patel stepped into the role temporarily when Rishabh Pant was suspended for three matches due to repeated slow over-rate penalties. This experience might have been a test run, a chance for Patel to showcase his leadership potential. Given his retention at an impressive ₹16.5 crore, Axar stands as the most expensive player DC has retained, underscoring the franchise’s faith in him.

With his extensive IPL journey—especially his vital years with DC since 2019—Axar has become more than just a powerful all-rounder for the team. His experience and consistency have turned him into a dependable pillar in Delhi’s lineup, with 967 runs and 62 wickets across 82 matches for the franchise.

A Captaincy Built on Experience and Dedication

Axar Patel’s record isn’t just about numbers; it speaks to his dedication, grit, and ability to balance multiple roles on the field. While he played for Punjab Kings earlier in his IPL career, where he scored 686 runs and took 61 wickets across 68 matches, his true breakout years have been with Delhi Capitals. Under DC’s banner, he has grown into a seasoned all-rounder who knows the pulse of IPL cricket and the strategies required for success.

A Historic Move for Indian All-Rounders in IPL

If Axar Patel indeed takes on the captaincy, he would be the first Indian all-rounder to lead Delhi Capitals in the history of the IPL. Previously, Delhi has had international all-rounders like James Hopes and JP Duminy helm the team, while Indian stars such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, and Zaheer Khan have also taken up the captaincy mantle in earlier seasons. But no Indian all-rounder has ever been chosen to lead DC.

This decision could serve as a powerful endorsement for Indian all-rounders, a reminder of their value not just as players but as potential leaders. Axar’s role could inspire a new wave of Indian players with both batting and bowling prowess to aspire to captaincy in the IPL.

Delhi Capitals’ 2025 Retained Core

Delhi Capitals’ decision to retain Axar Patel, along with Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Porel, and Kuldeep Yadav, indicates a focused strategy aimed at building a well-rounded team with a mix of talent and experience. Before the mega auction, DC has shown its commitment to keeping a solid core intact, positioning itself as a competitive force for the upcoming season.

Will IPL 2025 See Axar Patel Lead Delhi Capitals?

The potential appointment of Axar Patel as DC’s captain could mark the beginning of a new era for the team. The move would reflect not just trust in Patel’s ability but also in the all-rounder’s versatility to handle high-pressure moments. Should he rise to the challenge, Axar Patel’s leadership might ignite a fresh chapter of resilience, passion, and determination for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025.

Fans eagerly await the final decision, hoping to see Axar Patel stride into the field as captain—a symbol of pride for Indian all-rounders and a moment that could go down in IPL history.