Dinesh Karthik, a former Delhi Capitals player, may have inadvertently hinted at Axar Patel’s captaincy for the franchise in the upcoming IPL 2025 season. While the Capitals have yet to make an official announcement, Karthik’s comments have sparked speculation about a leadership change. Axar Patel has been a key player for the Capitals since joining the team in 2019.

The left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder stepped up as captain in one game last season when Rishabh Pant was unavailable. Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, Axar was retained by the franchise for an impressive INR 18 crore, highlighting his value to the team.
If he is officially named captain, this would mean KL Rahul, acquired for INR 14 crore at the auction, will play as a specialist batter for the first time since IPL 2020. Karthik shared his thoughts on Axar’s leadership potential during Cricbuzz’s HeyCB with DK show.
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“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. Wish him all the luck,” Dinesh Karthik said.

Notably, Axar was recently named India’s vice-captain for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England, showcasing his growing stature in Indian cricket. However, KL Rahul’s extensive leadership experience cannot be overlooked. Rahul captained Punjab Kings in 2020 and 2021 and then led Lucknow Super Giants for three consecutive seasons starting in 2022.
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Rahul, known for batting at the top in IPL, plays as a No. 5 batter for India in ODIs. How the Capitals choose to utilize him alongside Axar’s leadership will be a crucial strategic decision for the upcoming season. The dynamic between these two key players could shape Delhi Capitals’ campaign in IPL 2025.