3 Cricketers who could have led DC instead of Axar Patel

Star all rounder Axar Patel was named as the captain of Delhi Capitals (DC) on Friday, March 14, ahead of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). He will have the responsibility of leading the franchise to a first-ever IPL title.

Axar was appointed as India’s vice-captain in the shortest format in January. He has also led his state team, Gujarat, in 23 matches across formats. Axar is the team’s longest-serving player, having been roped in by the team in 2019. He was retained by the Capitals ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction for INR 16.50 crore.

While most fans welcomed the move, some expressed concerns about his experience which isn’t too extensive. Also, the 31-year-old, being an all-rounder, already has a lot of responsibility. Giving someone else the captaincy could have helped him solely focus on his skill sets with the bat and ball.

3 candidates who could’ve been chosen as captain barring Patidar

3. Karun Nair

Karun Nair reunited with Delhi Capitals for INR 50 lakh as he was signed by the franchise in the mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The right-handed batter has had a splendid time with the bat in domestic cricket in the 2024-25 season. Nair spent two seasons at Delhi Capitals in IPL 2016 and 2017, when they were named Delhi Daredevils. Nair also led the team in three matches after Zaheer Khan suffered an injury in the 2017 season.

He also has a lot of experience leading sides in domestic cricket. Under his leadership, Mysuru Warriors won the Maharaja Trophy in September 2024. Nair has a calm head and that could have helped him lead the side through crunch situations.