Image Credit gettyImages
Delhi Capitals (DC) have officially appointed Axar Patel as their new captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, set to commence on March 22. Patel, who has been with the franchise since 2019, was a key retention for DC at ₹16.50 crore ahead of the mega auction last November. Over his six seasons with the team, he has amassed 967 runs and claimed 62 wickets in 82 appearances, maintaining an impressive economy rate of just over 7.
Following the announcement, KL Rahul, who recently joined DC for ₹14 crore in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, extended his best wishes to Patel. Rahul took to Instagram, writing, “Congrats Bapu. Wishing you the best in this journey and always with you.”
Rahul brings significant captaincy experience to DC, having previously led the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from 2022 to 2024, guiding them to the playoffs in both 2022 and 2023. Prior to LSG, he captained the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for two seasons. Despite his leadership roles, Rahul is still seeking his first IPL title.
Axar Patel’s first task as DC captain will be in their IPL 2025 campaign opener against Rahul’s previous team, Lucknow Super Giants, on March 24. The team’s first home game is scheduled for April 13, when they will host the Mumbai Indians at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
