Axar Patel sacked as Delhi Capitals reveal new men’s and women’s captains

A major leadership change is expected at Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2026 season, according to media reports. The Delhi-based franchise has decided to move on from all-rounder Axar Patel as captain after his stint of just one season, and they are now looking at opener KL Rahul to take over the captaincy.

Patel led the Capitals last season, where the team made an incredible start before fading in the second half and narrowly missing out on a playoff spot. As results dipped, questions were raised over his leadership in IPL 2025. His on-field decisions, especially around bowling changes and field settings, drew criticism.

Delhi Capitals Sack Axar Patel After One Season, KL Rahul Set to Take Over

The Capitals are preparing for another leadership change ahead of IPL 2026, with KL Rahul now emerging as the leading candidate to take over as captain. While Rahul had earlier turned down the role in 2025 to concentrate on his batting, reports suggest his stance has shifted, and he is ready to lead again.

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According to a News 24 report, the franchise feels Rahul is the right candidate to guide the side next season. The Capitals have already retained players, including KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Karun Nair, Tristan Stubbs, Mitchell Starc, and others, and are keen to build their IPL 2026 campaign around this core.

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KL Rahul Set for Fresh Leadership Chapter With Delhi Capitals

KL Rahul is set to enter a new leadership phase after mixed captaincy spells with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). The new opportunity gives him a chance to establish himself as a successful leader.

Delhi have a more stable setup with a balanced squad and strong backing from head coach Hemang Badani and mentor Kevin Pietersen. Rahul showed leadership qualities by actively guiding teammates despite not being the official captain.

Rahul will look to strike the right balance between leading the side and maintaining his own batting form. With clearer roles and support around him, he hopes to grow into the leader Delhi Capitals need and help the franchise push closer to their first IPL title.

Jemimah Rodrigues Set to Take Over as Delhi Captain in WPL

Delhi Capitals are set to hand a major leadership role to Jemimah Rodrigues in the Women’s Premier League, with the franchise preparing to name her captain ahead of the next season. Jemimah has been one of India’s most consistent performers over the past year.

Jemimah’s performances for India, including her impact in the recent ODI World Cup, have boosted her case for the role. She was the franchise’s first signing at the inaugural auction and was retained again as part of their core group.

According to Cricbuzz, the official announcement is expected soon, with Delhi Capitals looking to build their next WPL cycle around Jemimah. The report added that the captaincy announcement is expected on Tuesday (December 23).

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