IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Remove Axar Patel From Captaincy, KL Rahul Tipped to Take Over

A significant leadership change is brewing within the Delhi Capitals (DC) camp ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, while according to media reports, the franchise has decided to relieve star all-rounder Axar Patel of his captaincy duties. This decision comes as a surprise to many, given Axar's consistent performance and his role as a key player for the team. While Axar will continue to be an integral part of the squad as a player, the captaincy baton is set to be passed to a more experienced campaigner. Axar Patel took over the captaincy for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025.

Under his leadership, the team played 14 matches, securing 7 victories and suffering 7 defeats, while this performance placed them in the fifth position on the points table, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot. Despite his commendable individual all-round performance with both bat and ball, the team's inability to qualify for the playoffs appears to be the primary catalyst for this major management decision. Axar displayed a calm and composed demeanor on the field,. But ultimately, the team fell short of the desired top-four finish.

Reasons Behind the Leadership Change

The Delhi Capitals management's decision to change captains is seen as a strategic move to infuse new energy and direction into the team. After failing to make it to the playoffs, the franchise is likely seeking a leader who can guide the team to greater heights and potentially clinch the coveted IPL title, while while Axar Patel remains a highly reliable player and a vital asset, the management believes that a change in leadership could be the key to unlocking the team's full potential. It's a common trend in professional sports for franchises to make bold decisions when expected results. Aren't met, and this move aligns with that philosophy, aiming for a fresh start and renewed aspirations.

KL Rahul Emerges as the Top Contender

Reports indicate that veteran wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul is the leading candidate to become the new captain of Delhi Capitals. Rahul is a well-established name in Indian cricket, boasting extensive captaincy experience in. The IPL, having previously led teams like Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. Under his captaincy, these teams have often shown strong performances, and his individual batting record has been consistently impressive. The franchise is keen on making him the focal point of their leadership group, hoping to bring stability and a winning ethos to the team. Rahul's tactical acumen and ability to perform under pressure make him an ideal choice for this crucial role.

KL Rahul's Experience and Potential Impact

KL Rahul's value extends beyond just captaincy; he's a senior player who contributes Importantly to the team's overall dynamics, while his exceptional batting prowess and wicketkeeping skills make him a valuable asset. For Delhi Capitals, Rahul's potential arrival wouldn't only signify a change in leadership but also a significant bolstering of their batting lineup. His presence is expected to provide mentorship to younger players and fill the void of an experienced leader within the squad. While an official announcement is still awaited, the buzz around KL Rahul's name as the next DC captain is growing stronger, indicating a strategic shift towards a proven leader.

Axar Patel's Contrasting Promotion in Team India

Interestingly, while Axar Patel is being relieved of his captaincy duties in the IPL, he has received a significant promotion within the Indian national team setup. The BCCI has appointed Axar Patel as the Vice-Captain for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. This decision reflects his consistent good form, match-winning abilities, and overall contributions on the field. He has taken over this responsibility from Shubman Gill, while axar has previously served as Vice-Captain for the Indian team, which underscores the immense trust and confidence placed in him by the national selectors. This is a personal triumph for him, highlighting his dedication and performance at the highest level of the sport.

Future Outlook for Delhi Capitals and Axar Patel

For Delhi Capitals, this leadership change could mark the beginning of a new chapter, with hopes of achieving better results in the upcoming season under fresh guidance, while as for Axar Patel, being relieved of captaincy responsibilities might allow him to focus more intently on his all-round game. He will remain a crucial player for the team, and it's. Anticipated that he will perform even better without the added pressure of leadership. His role as Vice-Captain for Team India further emphasizes his national importance, despite the change in his IPL role. It will be intriguing to observe how Delhi Capitals performs under KL Rahul's potential leadership and the contributions Axar Patel makes as a key player.