DC’s Captaincy Mess: Axar Ready To Walk Away?

Delhi Capitals could have a new captain for IPL 2027 after Aakash Chopra revealed that Axar Patel is reportedly not keen on continuing in the role.

With Rishabh Pant returning to the franchise, KL Rahul has also emerged as a possible option to lead the side next season.

Speaking on JioStar’s Game Plan, Chopra said Delhi have multiple candidates for the captaincy following the trade deal with Lucknow Super Giants, which brought Pant back to the franchise in exchange for Kuldeep Yadav.

Chopra suggested that Rahul could take charge if Axar decides against continuing as captain. Despite this, Delhi have not made any official announcement regarding their leadership plans.

Axar took over as Delhi’s captain ahead of IPL 2025 after Pant moved to Lucknow Super Giants. He started his leadership stint well, guiding the team to five wins in their first six matches. Delhi failed to maintain that form and finished fifth, missing the playoffs.

Their IPL 2026 campaign was also disappointing, as the franchise finished sixth on the table. Axar managed 173 runs and picked up 11 wickets in 14 matches during the season.

Rahul, meanwhile, brings previous captaincy experience to the table. He led Lucknow Super Giants between 2022 and 2024, taking the team to the playoffs in his first two seasons. He has played under Axar since joining Delhi ahead of IPL 2025.

Pant is also a strong candidate, having previously captained Delhi Capitals between 2021 and 2024. Aakash Chopra believes the franchise must use him in the top four to get the best out of the wicketkeeper batter.

The final decision will be important for head coach Sourav Ganguly and the new coaching staff, which includes Yuvraj Singh. With the IPL 2027 retention deadline set for November 17, Delhi will need clarity on their plans as they prepare for the next season.