DC Captain 2025 | Axar Patel Named Delhi Capitals Captain for IPL 2025

Axar Patel Named Delhi Capitals Captain for IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals have officially announced all-rounder Axar Patel as their new captain ahead of the TATA IPL 2025 season. The 31-year-old, who has been an integral part of the franchise since 2019, will now take on the leadership role as DC look to mount a strong campaign in the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Having played 82 matches for Delhi Capitals, Patel has been a consistent performer with both bat and ball, amassing 967 runs and taking 62 wickets at an impressive economy of 7.09. His leadership appointment comes as a natural progression, having served as vice-captain for the past two seasons.

A Leader in the Making

Axar Patel’s promotion to captaincy reflects his growing stature within the team. The decision was welcomed by Delhi Capitals Chairman Kiran Kumar Grandhi, who praised Patel’s contributions over the years.

"We are delighted to appoint Axar as the Delhi Capitals captain. He has been an integral part of the Capitals family since 2019 and embodies the values that this team is built on. This decision reflects the natural progression for him as a leader – from being our vice-captain for two seasons to now leading the team. He has always stepped up to the occasion for us."

Delhi Capitals Co-owner Parth Jindal echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Patel’s influence both on and off the field.

"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."

Axar Patel's Vision for Delhi Capitals

For Axar Patel, taking on the captaincy is a moment of pride and responsibility. Expressing his gratitude to the management, he emphasized his commitment to the role.

"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. 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."

Patel also credited the franchise’s scouting and coaching staff for assembling a strong squad at the IPL 2025 auction.

"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."

A Well-Balanced Support System

Delhi Capitals have surrounded Patel with a solid support group, consisting of experienced cricketers who can guide him in his first full-time IPL captaincy role. The team boasts a strong leadership group featuring KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and Mitchell Starc—three senior international stars who bring invaluable experience to the dressing room.

Additionally, Patel will work closely with DC’s coaching staff, including:

• Director of Cricket: Venugopal Rao

• Mentor: Kevin Pietersen

• Head Coach: Hemang Badani

• Assistant Coach: Matthew Mott

• Bowling Coach: Munaf Patel

A Veteran of the IPL

Patel’s appointment as captain is a testament to his impressive IPL career. The left-arm spinner has featured in 150 IPL matches, scoring 1653 runs and taking 123 wickets. His most memorable moment came in 2016 when he secured a stunning hat-trick, taking four wickets in five balls for the Punjab franchise.

Since moving to Delhi Capitals in 2019, Patel has evolved into a reliable all-rounder, delivering crucial performances with both bat and ball. His consistency and leadership qualities have earned him this latest responsibility as he looks to guide DC to their first-ever IPL title.

Delhi Capitals Kick Off IPL 2025 Campaign in Visakhapatnam

The Axar Patel-led Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2025 season with a high-stakes clash against Lucknow Super Giants in Visakhapatnam on March 24. With a new captain at the helm, the franchise aims to make a strong statement in their opening fixture and build momentum for the long season ahead.

With Patel’s leadership, a well-balanced squad, and an experienced support staff, Delhi Capitals are primed to be serious contenders in IPL 2025. Fans will be eager to see how the all-rounder embraces his new role as he leads the team into a fresh chapter.