Team India's prominent all-rounder Axar Patel is poised to embrace a new role as the captain of Delhi Capitals for the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This development was seemingly disclosed by former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik during the Cricbuzz program HeyCB with DK on YouTube, although an official confirmation from the franchise is still pending.

Axar, who has been a part of DC since 2019, was retained for an impressive INR 18 crore prior to the IPL 2025 mega auction.

At 30 years of age, he had a brief experience in a leadership role during IPL 2024 when he filled in for Rishabh Pant in one match. His promotion to the position of full-time captain for DC comes as a surprise, especially considering the franchise's acquisition of KL Rahul during the auction. Rahul, who has captained both Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, brings significant leadership experience.

Recently, Axar was appointed vice-captain of the Indian T20I team for the first time, following the BCCI's announcement of the squad for the five-match series against England.

Karthik expressed his support, stating, "For Axar Patel, all the very best (for India vice-captaincy). A good opportunity for him. He is going to be the Delhi Capitals’ captain as well. So here is a good opportunity for him to lead and show the way. He has been doing that for Gujarat as well. So, wish him all the luck."

Rahul to play as a specialist batter

Axar's elevation to the captaincy signifies that KL Rahul, an experienced leader in the IPL, will assume the role of a specialist batter for the first time since the 2020 season. The 32-year-old cricketer from Bengaluru, who was acquired by DC for INR 14 crore, possesses extensive experience, having led PBKS in 2020 and 2021, and LSG from 2022 to 2024.

The batting position of Rahul will be a significant topic of discussion for DC. Although he has thrived as an opener for both PBKS and LSG, he has also demonstrated versatility in the middle order for the Indian national team, where he typically bats at No. 5 in ODIs. The decision on whether he will remain at the top of the order or transition to a different role could be crucial for DC's success in the upcoming season.

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