Delhi Capitals’ Captaincy Dilemma for IPL 2025: Axar Patel Emerges as Frontrunner Over KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season approaches, Delhi Capitals (DC) face a crucial decision in appointing a new captain following the departure of Rishabh Pant to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). While speculation surrounded the possibility of KL Rahul or Faf du Plessis leading the franchise, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has identified Axar Patel as the strongest candidate for the role.

Chopra highlighted that Axar’s recent growth as a cricketer and his leadership potential make him the ideal choice. With Delhi retaining him for ₹16.50 crore ahead of the mega auction, the franchise’s trust in his abilities is evident.

Why Axar Patel is the Leading Contender for DC Captaincy

1. Consistency and All-Round Performance

Axar Patel had a productive IPL 2024 season, demonstrating his value as both a bowler and a dependable lower-order batter.

• Bowling Stats in IPL 2024: 11 wickets in 14 matches, economy rate of 7.65, showing his ability to control the game in crucial phases.
• Batting Contribution: 235 runs at a strike rate of 131.28, proving his ability to accelerate when needed.

2. Delhi Capitals’ Strategic Retention

Delhi Capitals prioritized retaining Axar Patel for ₹16.50 crore, a clear indication of their long-term plans involving him as a key player.

• His experience with Indian cricket’s leadership group in recent years has further strengthened his tactical acumen.
• His ability to perform under pressure, especially in clutch situations, makes him a natural leader on the field.

KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis: Other Captaincy Options

1. KL Rahul: A Proven Leader but Not the First Choice?

DC secured KL Rahul for ₹14 crore at the IPL 2025 auction, making him a strong alternative for the captaincy.

• Previous Captaincy Experience: Led Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants and also captained India in limited-overs cricket.
• Concerns: His strike rate in T20 cricket has often been scrutinized, and DC may want a more aggressive leader.

2. Faf du Plessis: A Seasoned Captain, but a Secondary Option

Acquired for a bargain price of ₹2 crore, Faf du Plessis brings immense leadership experience, having led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in previous seasons.

• A tactically sound leader who has captained South Africa in international cricket.
• However, his limited presence in the DC setup compared to Axar Patel makes him an unlikely choice for the full-time captaincy.