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Delhi Capitals could witness a major leadership change ahead of IPL 2027, with uncertainty surrounding Axar Patel's future as captain. According to reports, the Indian all-rounder is reportedly reluctant to continue in the leadership role. If he decides to step down, former captain Rishabh Pant could be considered for the position.
The captaincy situation has become an important issue for Delhi Capitals as the franchise prepares for the upcoming IPL season. While the management reportedly wants Axar to continue, a possible change in leadership cannot be ruled out.
Axar Patel Reportedly Wants to Step Down as Delhi Capitals Captain
Axar Patel has been leading Delhi Capitals for the past two IPL seasons. However, his continuation as captain is now uncertain ahead of IPL 2027.
According to a report by The Times of India, Axar has reportedly expressed his unwillingness to continue as captain. Meanwhile, the Delhi Capitals management wants him to retain the leadership role and is trying to convince him.
The franchise considers Axar an important player, making his captaincy situation a major concern ahead of the new season.
Delhi Capitals Performance Under Axar Patel Raises Questions
Delhi Capitals have struggled to achieve consistent results under Axar Patel's captaincy. The team failed to qualify for the playoffs in both seasons under his leadership.
His individual performances have also attracted attention. During IPL 2026, Axar scored 173 runs in 11 innings. In IPL 2025, he picked up only five wickets in 11 innings.
Despite these numbers, Axar remains an important all-rounder for the franchise because of his contributions with both bat and ball.
Delhi Capitals Reject Trade Offers for Axar Patel Ahead of IPL 2027
Another major development is that Delhi Capitals have reportedly rejected trade proposals from other IPL franchises for Axar Patel.
According to the report, several teams showed interest in acquiring the Indian all-rounder through trade deals. However, Delhi management turned down all the proposals.
A source quoted in the report suggested that Axar is reluctant to continue as captain, while the management wants him to remain in the role. The franchise has reportedly decided to delay its final captaincy decision until after the auction.
Rishabh Pant Could Replace Axar Patel as Delhi Capitals Captain
If Axar Patel decides to step down, Rishabh Pant could become a strong candidate to lead Delhi Capitals in IPL 2027.
Pant has previously captained the franchise and has considerable leadership experience in the Indian Premier League. Following his reported return to Delhi through a trade deal, the wicketkeeper-batter could once again become an important part of the team's leadership plans.
His previous experience with the franchise could make him a suitable option if Delhi decides to appoint a new captain.
Who Will Captain Delhi Capitals in IPL 2027?
The captaincy situation at Delhi Capitals is expected to remain a major talking point ahead of IPL 2027. While the management reportedly wants Axar Patel to continue, Rishabh Pant could be considered as his replacement if a leadership change takes place.
However, Delhi Capitals have not officially announced any captaincy change. It remains to be seen whether Axar continues as captain or Pant gets another opportunity to lead the franchise in the upcoming season.
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