Delhi Capitals (DC) could be heading towards a leadership change ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season, with Axar Patel reportedly reluctant to continue as captain. The all-rounder has led the franchise for two seasons, but Delhi have failed to qualify for the playoffs during his tenure, extending their wait for a knockout appearance since 2021.
Reportedly, the franchise management is trying to convince Axar to reconsider his decision, given his importance to the team. However, with the November 17 retention deadline and December 16 mini-auction approaching, the Capitals could soon have to make a call on their leadership situation. On that note, here are three players who could replace Axar as DC captain in IPL 2027.
Players who cam replace Axar Patel as Delhi Capitals captain in IPL 2027
3. Nitish Rana
Nitish Rana could emerge as an outside contender for the Delhi Capitals captaincy despite not being the first name that comes to mind. The left-handed batter has already led an IPL franchise, having taken charge of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 2023 season when Shreyas Iyer was ruled out due to injury. Rana guided Kolkata to six wins in 14 matches, with the team finishing seventh in the standings.
Interestingly, the additional responsibility also brought out the best in Rana with the bat. He scored 413 runs in 14 matches at an average of 31.77 and a strike rate of 140.96, making it the only IPL season in which he crossed the 400-run mark. He also has experience leading Delhi in domestic white-ball cricket, while his familiarity with the city’s cricketing environment could work in his favour.
Rana may not have the same leadership experience as some of the other candidates, but he could provide a steady option if the Capitals prefer not to burden one of their established stars with captaincy. His appointment could also serve as a short-term arrangement while the franchise assesses its long-term leadership plans.
2. Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant’s return to Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2027 could put him back in the captaincy conversation. The wicketkeeper-batter previously led the franchise between 2021 and 2024 and helped them reach the playoffs in the 2021 season. He has a record of 23 wins from 43 matches as DC captain, making him one of the franchise’s most successful leaders.
Although Pant’s recent captaincy stint with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) did not produce the desired results, his familiarity with Delhi’s setup could make him a strong candidate. The Capitals have also made a significant effort to bring him back, trading Kuldeep Yadav in the process, which underlines the importance they place on his return.
A fresh start at a familiar franchise could help Pant rediscover his best form as both a batter and a leader. However, the management will have to consider whether handing him the captaincy immediately is the right move, especially with another experienced leadership option already part of the squad.
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1. KL Rahul
KL Rahul can be the strongest candidate to replace Patel as Delhi Capitals captain in IPL 2027, given his extensive experience in the role. He has previously led Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, guiding the latter to the playoffs in each of his first two seasons. Rahul has also captained India across all three formats, giving him considerable experience in handling leadership responsibilities.
The wicketkeeper-batter has also enjoyed a productive stint with Delhi since joining the franchise in 2025. In IPL 2026, he scored 593 runs in 14 matches at an average of 45.62 and a strike rate of 174.41. His ability to provide stability at the top of the order, combined with his experience of leading different teams, makes him a compelling option for the role.
Former India batter Aakash Chopra also recently discussed the uncertainty surrounding Delhi’s captaincy situation and suggested that Rahul could be in contention. With the franchise looking to end its playoff drought, appointing an experienced leader can provide the stability needed for a fresh start. However, the management will also have to consider whether the added responsibility could affect Rahul’s batting returns.
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