Saturday 12 April 2025
Is Rishabh Pant Not Leading Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025?
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Star Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant may not lead the Delhi Capitals in the upcoming 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to the reports from the Times of India and News 18 on October 17, the franchise is looking for a new captain. All-rounder Axar Patel is being viewed as a possible replacement after Pant, who started his captain innings in 2021.
As per the reports, the Delhi Capitals might be exploring new leadership possibilities, with Axar Patel likely to step in as captain. The team may also consider other candidates who have captaincy experience during the IPL auction, expected to occur abroad in mid-November.
Yes, the Delhi Capitals could be looking for a new captain. There are chances that Indian allrounder Axar Patel may take over as the new captain, or the franchise could be eyeing someone who is captaincy material at the IPL auction (likely to take place overseas in mid-November, The source quoted.
Despite the shift in leadership, Pant is expected to be the franchises primary choice for retention as he might excel more without the burdens of captaincy, enabling him to concentrate on his performance.
Pant has been an essential player for the Delhi Capitals since his IPL debut in 2016. He is the most capped player in the franchises history and holds the record for the highest runs scored for the team in the league. Pant became captain in 2021 after Shreyas Iyer was injured during a white-ball series against England. In his inaugural season as captain, the Capitals finished at the top of the points table but ultimately fell short of reaching the finals, losing in both qualifier matches to the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders.
One possibility for the Delhi Capitals in the auction could be Shreyas Iyer, who recently led the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL championship. If KKR opts not to retain him, Iyer could be a significant asset for the Capitals as they aim to strengthen their leadership.
Recently, Pant met with Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal and Kiran Kumar Grandhi to discuss his future with the team. His insights and involvement in the teams direction could be pivotal in influencing their strategic plans.
Pants performance over the past year has been commendable, especially considering his recovery from a serious car accident in December 2022. His resilience was evident when he made his comeback to Test cricket in September 2024 against Bangladesh scoring an impressive 109 runs in the second innings.
This century not only showcased his determination but also helped Indias 280-run victory, contributing significantly to the teams 2-0 series win against Bangladesh. His performance drew accolades from cricket legends including Wasim Akram, who described it as a miracle and a superhuman effort.
Pants comeback has invigorated the Indian Cricket team, with his aggressive batting and knack for performing under pressure, which have been crucial in multiple matches. His presence lifts team morale, especially in high-stakes moments.
Since his comeback, Pant has been actively engaging with fans and making public appearances. His recent group selfie with fans displayed his gratitude for their unwavering support during his recovery.
To ensure Rishabh’s fitness and to manage his workload, Pant has been taking breaks in some matches, including the ongoing T20I series against Bangladesh. He returned for the Test series against New Zealand, which started on October 16 in Bengaluru.
Even as Pant steps down from captaincy, his contributions to the Delhi Capitals and Indian cricket remain invaluable, as he continues to evolve both asa player and a leader.
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