DC captain for IPL 2027: Exploring possible options if Axar Patel steps down

Delhi Capitals may consider new captain for IPL 2027 if Axar Patel withdraws from the role, as he has reportedly expressed reluctance to continue in the position after two underwhelming seasons. Delhi has yet to secure playoff qualification in both seasons, finishing fifth in 2025 and sixth in 2026. Despite management efforts to persuade Patel to stay, a decision on his future will be made after the December mini-auction.

Delhi also recently reshuffled their coaching staff, bringing in Sourav Ganguly as head coach and Yuvraj Singh as assistant.

Potential replacements for Patel include experienced leaders KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, as well as Nitish Rana, who has previously captained Kolkata Knight Riders. Rahul, who has led both Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, boasts valuable leadership experience from international cricket. Pant, who led Delhi Capitals from 2021 to 2024, has a proven track record of success in the IPL despite Delhi not reaching the playoffs during his tenure.

Nitish Rana, though not as experienced, has led Kolkata Knight Riders to a seventh-place finish in 2023, despite not qualifying for the playoffs.