IPL 2025: Axar Patel Named New Delhi Capitals Captain

All-rounder Axar Patel has been appointed as Delhi Capitals (DC) captain, the franchise announced on March 14 (Friday). The move comes after Rishabh Pant moved to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction.

He was Pant's deputy at the franchise and in fact led them in one game - against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) - in 2024. However, he has the experience of leading his state Gujarat across formats, most recently in the Syed Mustaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025. 

“It is my absolute honour to captain the Delhi Capitals, and I’m deeply grateful to our owners and support staff for placing their faith in me,” said Axar Patel on being appointed as the captain. 

“I’ve grown as a cricketer and a human being during my time here at the Capitals, and I feel ready and confident to lead this side going forward. Our coaches and scouts have done a superb job at the mega auction by putting together a balanced and robust squad which has tremendous potential. We have plenty of leaders in the group, which is also very helpful for me, and I can’t wait to join the team as we look forward to a very successful season for the Capitals, backed by the immense love and support of our fans.”

The 31-year-old was also named India's T20 International (T20I) vice-captain in January this year. WIth Pant's exit, Axar is now DC's most experienced player with 82 matches in six seasons.

He was most recently part of India's successful Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, where he picked up five wickets and scored 109 runs at 27.25, batting at No.5.

Speaking of Axar's appointment, team co-owner Parth Jindal said, “I have witnessed Axar’s progression as a cricketer and a leader first-hand at the Delhi Capitals. 

“Having personally picked Axar in 2019, my relationship with him is one that goes beyond cricket. Having seen him as the Vice Captain of the team over the last two years, it is safe to say that he is a much-loved character in the dressing room and is someone who I am sure will motivate the players in the squad. 

"From being an economical spinner who had an immediate impact when he came onto bowl, Axar has blossomed into a brilliant, mature cricketer whose all-round prowess was on full display in India’s T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy winning campaigns recently. I wish him good luck as he starts a new innings in his cricketing journey. 

"With seniors like KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis and Mitchell Starc being part of our leadership group, I believe this is the start of something special for the Delhi Capitals.” 

DC Kick start their IPL 2025 campaign against LSG on March 24 in Visakhapatnam.