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Delhi Capitals could make a major leadership change ahead of IPL 2027, with KL Rahul emerging as a strong contender for the captaincy. Reports suggest that current skipper Axar Patel is considering stepping down after leading the franchise for the last two seasons.
Although Delhi Capitals have not officially confirmed any change, the possibility of a new captain has created considerable interest among fans. KL Rahul's IPL captaincy experience and Rishabh Pant's return to the franchise have made the leadership race even more interesting.
Axar Patel May Step Down as Delhi Capitals Captain Ahead of IPL 2027
Axar Patel took over as Delhi Capitals captain before IPL 2025. He started his leadership journey with impressive performances, guiding the team to five victories in its first six matches.
However, Delhi failed to maintain its winning momentum and finished fifth in the points table. The team's struggles continued in IPL 2026, as it managed seven wins and seven losses to finish sixth.
According to reports, Axar is now considering stepping away from the captaincy. He has reportedly communicated his decision to the franchise management, although the team is believed to be interested in convincing him to continue.
Delhi Capitals performance under Axar Patel:
| IPL Season | Position | Playoff Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 5th | No |
| 2026 | 6th | No |
KL Rahul Could Become Delhi Capitals Captain: Check His IPL Record
KL Rahul is reportedly among the leading candidates to become Delhi Capitals next captain for IPL 2027. His experience of leading multiple IPL teams makes him a strong option for the position.
Rahul has previously captained Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. His biggest leadership achievement came in IPL 2022, when he guided Lucknow to the playoffs in their debut season.
Lucknow also reached the playoffs in 2023 under Rahul's leadership. However, he suffered an injury during the season and missed the remaining matches.
Although Lucknow Super Giants could not qualify for the playoffs in 2024, Rahul remains an experienced IPL leader. His understanding of the Delhi Capitals squad could also work in his favour.
If the management decides to change its captain, Rahul could be a suitable option to lead the franchise in the upcoming season.
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Rishabh Pant Also a Strong Contender for Delhi Capitals Captaincy
Rishabh Pant could also emerge as a captaincy option for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2027. The wicketkeeper-batter has reportedly returned to the franchise ahead of the new season following a trade deal involving Lucknow Super Giants.
Pant previously captained Delhi Capitals and helped the team finish at the top of the league standings in IPL 2021. However, Delhi lost the second qualifier and missed out on a place in the final.
His captaincy record with Delhi includes:
- IPL 2021: Delhi finished first in the league stage.
- IPL 2022: Delhi finished fifth.
- IPL 2023: Missed the season due to injury.
- IPL 2024: Delhi finished sixth.
Pant's recent captaincy record with Lucknow Super Giants was not particularly impressive. Lucknow finished seventh in IPL 2025 and tenth in IPL 2026.
Despite these results, his previous association with Delhi Capitals could make him an option for the leadership role.
Sourav Ganguly and Yuvraj Singh Face a Big Captaincy Decision
Delhi Capitals are also expected to have important discussions about their leadership structure ahead of IPL 2027.
Sourav Ganguly has been associated with the team's coaching setup, while Yuvraj Singh's reported appointment as assistant coach could bring another experienced voice into the dressing room.
Both former Indian cricketers could have an important role in shaping the team's future plans.
The management will need to consider several factors, including leadership experience, player combinations and long-term team strategy, before selecting the next captain.
KL Rahul's familiarity with the squad gives him an advantage, while Pant's previous association with Delhi Capitals could also influence the decision.
When Will Delhi Capitals Announce Their New Captain for IPL 2027?
Delhi Capitals captaincy decision is likely to remain a major talking point ahead of IPL 2027. Reports suggest that clarity could emerge in the coming months.
However, neither Axar Patel stepping down nor KL Rahul becoming the next captain has been officially confirmed by the franchise.
Delhi Capitals have never won an IPL trophy. Their only final appearance came in 2020, when they lost to Mumbai Indians.
The franchise will now aim to build a stronger combination for IPL 2027. Whether KL Rahul gets the captaincy, Rishabh Pant returns to the leadership role, or Axar Patel continues as skipper remains to be seen.
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