Delhi Capitals finalised a 19-player squad for the 2025 Indian Premier League, with KL Rahul being one of the marquee India stars being roped in at the two-day auction earlier this week. DC fended off an intense bidding war to buy Rahul for INR 14 crore; however, while many believe Rahul will potentially lead the franchise next season, former India opener Aakash Chopra thinks the reins should be handed to all-rounder Axar Patel.
Axar was one of the players retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction, and has been a consistent all-round performer for the Capitals for many years. Chopra believes Axar commands respect in the dressing room and is one of the senior members of the side, and has the ability to run the team.
"Who will be the captain? Their situation is like KKR. It could be Axar Patel. I don't mind him being the captain. If you give me the option, I would say make Axar the captain. He is extremely underrated, very mature, fantastic performer, and he will run the team very well. He is someone who will command respect," he said.
Chopra did acknowledge that Rahul is another strong option for captaincy, alongside Faf du Plessis – who was also picked at the auction – but Axar's “exceptional” performances for the Capitals make him a stand-out contender.
"KL Rahul could be the other option. The third could be Faf du Plessis if they wish so, but they might not play Faf from the start because they used the Right To Match card for Jake Fraser-McGurk.
{{/usCountry}}"KL Rahul could be the other option. The third could be Faf du Plessis if they wish so, but they might not play Faf from the start because they used the Right To Match card for Jake Fraser-McGurk.
{{/usCountry}}"So I am thinking between Axar and Rahul but the management hasn't given any clarity yet. My vote goes towards Axar because his performances on this ground have been exceptional," he further said.
DC lose Pant
The Capitals did exercise the Right to Match (RTM) option for Rishabh Pant at INR 21 crore in the IPL auction, but Lucknow Super Giants, who had the bid, increased the final price to INR 27 crore. DC eventually decided to let go of their star former captain, who had been a part of the franchise since his maiden season in 2016.
It was then, when Capitals decided to channel their energy towards bidding for KL Rahul, eventually succeeding in his bidding by beating Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders.