IPL 2025: Axar Patel finalized as Delhi Capitals' second retention

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra said that Axar Patel should be the second player retained by the Delhi Capitals ahead of the IPL mega auction. Aakash Chopra said that Axar Patel has been excellent for the franchise, adding that he can contribute to the team in three departments on the field.

The Delhi Capitals will be looking for a successful mega auction to secure their first title in the tournament. They have struggled to find the right balance, despite having a strong squad in the past. The Delhi-based franchise failed to advance to the playoffs in the IPL 2024 under Rishabh Pant's captaincy.

I Would Say Axar Patel At No. 2 - Aakash Chopra

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra said that Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel should be the top two retentions for the Delhi Capitals. Chopra also said that acquiring Axar Patel through the 'Right To Match' card could prove costly if he enters the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.

"Rishabh Pant needs to be retained, although there were rumors earlier that the guy won't stay. However, now they are saying that it's confirmed he is going to stay. So Rishabh Pant as your first retention, keep 18 crores there," Chopra said.

"I would say Axar Patel at No. 2 because Bapu's performances have been excellent for this team, and have been excellent otherwise as well. He bowls four overs, bats very well, and is a good fielder. If you put him in the auction, you will have to pay a lot for the RTM. So I feel you should retain him," he added.

Patel was one of the key players for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 season. The left-handed batter scored 235 runs at a strike rate of 131.28. He also took 11 wickets with an economy rate of 7.65. It is unlikely the Capitals will release him before the auctions as he provides crucial balance to the team.

Abishek Porel Will Remain Uncapped Till The Auction - Aakash Chopra

In the same video, the cricketer-turned-commentator said that the Delhi Capitals can retain Abishek Porel as an uncapped player. He added that Porel will remain uncapped until the auction and can be retained for four crores.

"After that, Abishek Porel. He is still uncapped and will remain uncapped till the auction. You can retain him for four crores. You will have two 'Right To Match' cards after retaining three capped players and Abishek Porel," Chopra further stated.

Can Use One For Jake Fraser-McGurk/Kuldeep Yadav - Aakash Chopra

Chopra said that the Delhi Capitals should consider using their 'Right to Match' cards for one of Jake Fraser-McGurk Kuldeep Yadav, and Khaleel Ahmed. He added that Khaleel's stature has grown and can swing the ball both ways.

"You can use one for Jake Fraser-McGurk/Kuldeep Yadav, whoever you don't retain. You can use the second one for Khaleel Ahmed. You should somehow try to acquire Khaleel Ahmed because his stature has grown. He is bowling very well and swinging the ball both ways," Chopra concluded.

Chopra said that the new 'Right to Match' rules might increase Khaleel Ahmed's price at the auction. As an alternative, he said Tristan Stubbs is another potential option for the Delhi Capitals to consider using their RTM card during the auction, which is expected to take place later this year, possibly overseas.

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