Axar Patel Appointed Captain of Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals have officially appointed Axar Patel as their captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. The left-handed all-rounder, who has been a key member of the franchise since 2019, takes over the leadership from Rishabh Pant, who moved to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the mega auction. Axar has represented Delhi Capitals in 82 matches and now steps into the leadership role as the team looks forward to a new chapter.
Axar previously led Delhi Capitals for a single match in the 2024 season against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) when Pant was suspended due to a slow over-rate violation. His T20 captaincy credentials include leading Gujarat in 16 domestic matches, alongside being elevated to India’s T20I vice-captaincy earlier this year.
Pant was not among Delhi Capitals’ retained players, opting instead to enter the auction, where he was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for a record ₹27 Crore. Meanwhile, Axar Patel was Delhi’s highest retention, secured for ₹16.5 Crore. A seasoned all-rounder, Axar brings extensive experience to the role, having played 274 T20 matches, amassing 3,088 runs, including eight half-centuries, and claiming 239 wickets, highlighted by a hat-trick in IPL 2016 for Punjab.
Axar Patel’s Statement on Captaincy Appointment
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Axar Patel said:
*”It is an absolute honor to be named the captain of Delhi Capitals, and I am immensely thankful to the team management, owners, and support staff for their trust in me. Over the years, I have grown both as a cricketer and as a person within this franchise, and I feel prepared and confident to lead the team forward.
Our coaches and scouting team have done an outstanding job in assembling a well-balanced and competitive squad at the mega auction. We have several strong leaders within the group, which will be invaluable in shaping a successful season. I am eager to take on this responsibility and lead the Capitals with passion, backed by the unwavering support of our incredible fans.”*
Delhi Capitals Management on Axar’s Leadership
Delhi Capitals Chairman Kiran Kumar Grandhi welcomed the decision, stating:
“We are delighted to appoint Axar Patel as the captain of Delhi Capitals. He has been an integral part of our franchise since 2019 and perfectly embodies the values we stand for. His leadership journey, from vice-captaincy over the past two seasons to now taking charge, is a natural progression. Axar has consistently stepped up for the team, and we have full confidence in his ability to lead us forward. He has the complete support of our coaching staff and senior leadership group, and we wish him the very best in this new role.”
Parth Jindal, co-owner of Delhi Capitals, also shared his enthusiasm for Axar’s appointment:
*”Having personally been involved in Axar’s selection in 2019, my connection with him extends beyond cricket. As vice-captain for the past two seasons, he has been a widely respected and admired figure in the dressing room. His ability to inspire and motivate the squad is unquestionable.
Axar’s growth as an all-rounder has been exceptional—from an economical spinner to a dependable match-winner. His performances in India’s T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy victories have further solidified his stature. As he embarks on this new leadership journey, I am confident he will thrive. With senior players like KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and Mitchell Starc in our leadership group, this marks the beginning of an exciting era for Delhi Capitals.”*
Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 Campaign Kickoff
Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2025 campaign with a home fixture in Visakhapatnam on March 24, facing Lucknow Super Giants, now led by their former captain Rishabh Pant. The highly anticipated clash will mark the beginning of Axar Patel’s leadership tenure as Delhi Capitals aim for a successful season.
