In a game that showcased leadership, resilience, and individual brilliance, Axar Patel once again proved why he’s more than just a dependable all-rounder — he’s quickly becoming one of the standout captains of IPL 2025. Former Australian allrounder Shane Watson was among the many impressed by Axar’s calm yet commanding presence during Delhi Capitals’ comprehensive victory over Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.
While Axar didn’t pick up a wicket, his economical spell of 0/29 from four overs up front helped apply the squeeze early. His economy even outshone that of Kuldeep Yadav, who, for the first time this season, returned wicketless. But it was with the bat where Axar truly made his presence felt, finishing unbeaten on 34 off just 20 balls. His composed knock ensured DC chased down the 160-run target in just 17.5 overs — a display of leadership both with the ball and the bat.
Shane Watson, speaking on JioHotstar, highlighted Axar’s impact: “It was the intent from ball one that stood out. LSG didn’t bowl well to him early, and he made them pay. He took charge and led by example — something we’ve seen less of from Rishabh Pant this season. You could tell Axar wanted to be in the fight, and that’s exactly what you want from a captain.”
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Axar’s finishing touches were perfectly complemented by KL Rahul, who returned to his former home ground with a point to prove. Rahul’s 57 not out marked his third fifty of the season, and during the innings, he crossed the 5000-run milestone in the IPL — the fastest ever to do so in just 130 innings. The duo stitched together a match-winning, unbeaten 56-run partnership, with Rahul finishing the chase in style with a six.
“KL was in complete control,” said Shane Watson. “He didn’t need to go flashy. It was calm, measured, and exactly what was required. He’s shown all tournament that he can adapt — aggressive when needed, composed when the situation demands it. That adaptability is invaluable for Delhi.”
On the bowling front, Mukesh Kumar turned heads with a brilliant 4/33 spell. His delivery to dismiss Mitchell Marsh — a searing reverse-swinging yorker — was a standout. “Mukesh’s intensity and execution were top-notch,” added Watson. “Getting Marsh like that changed the game.”
Meanwhile, former India batter Ambati Rayudu offered his thoughts on Abishek Porel’s gritty 51, his first half-century this season.
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“It was a good knock, though not flawless,” Ambati Rayudu remarked. “A few shots were streaky, but it worked. He should’ve ideally seen the game through, like KL did. There’s potential there, but some fine-tuning — especially learning to rotate strike more and pick his spots — will serve him well.”
All in all, Delhi Capitals continue to surge under Axar Patel’s stewardship, blending seasoned performances with promising youthful energy.
