In a bold move, Delhi Capitals have announced that KL Rahul and Axar Patel will share captaincy responsibilities for the IPL 2025 season. Co-owner Parth Jindal confirmed the decision, emphasizing the strategic alignment of Rahul’s playing style with the team’s home ground at Arun Jaitley Stadium. The announcement comes after Delhi secured KL Rahul for Rs 14 crore on Day 1 of the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah.
KL Rahul to be a key asset for Delhi Capitals
Parth Jindal expressed excitement over Rahul’s inclusion, highlighting his consistency as a top-order batter. “KL Rahul’s record speaks for itself. He has been among the top run-scorers every season, and his adaptability on Kotla’s wicket will be crucial for us. His experience and calm demeanor make him the perfect leader alongside Axar Patel,” Jindal stated.
Rahul, who has previously captained Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, brings a wealth of leadership experience. He has amassed 4,683 IPL runs in 132 matches at an average of 45.47, including four centuries and 37 half-centuries. His ability to anchor innings and his wicketkeeping skills make him a vital cog in Delhi’s lineup.
Strengthening the batting and leadership
Delhi Capitals’ strategy for IPL 2025 revolves around experience at the top and guidance for the younger players. “KL and Axar will mentor our young batting core. Both bring stability and leadership that will be pivotal in high-pressure matches,” Jindal elaborated.
Bowling unit in focus for Day 2
While the batting lineup looks formidable, Jindal revealed that Delhi Capitals are targeting bowlers to round off their squad. “We are eyeing a couple of bowlers to bolster our attack. With a strong core in place, we’re confident about building a well-rounded, competitive team,” he added.
Delhi Capitals’ Day 1 acquisitions
Delhi Capitals invested heavily on Day 1 of the auction, securing experienced players like Mitchell Starc and T Natarajan. Here’s the list of players acquired:
- Mitchell Starc – Rs 11.75 crore
- KL Rahul – Rs 14 crore
- Jake Fraser-McGurk – Retained through RTM
- Harry Brook – Rs 6.25 crore
- T Natarajan – Rs 10.75 crore
- Karun Nair – Rs 50 lakh
- Sameer Rizvi – Rs 95 lakh
- Ashutosh Sharma – Rs 3.80 crore
- Mohit Sharma – Rs 2.20 crore
Conclusion
With dual captains at the helm and a strategic focus on balanced squad composition, Delhi Capitals look poised for a strong IPL 2025 campaign. The team’s decisions on Day 2 will further shape their chances of claiming their maiden IPL title.