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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.
Is Delhi Capitals Seeking New Leadership?
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 franchise’s primary choice for retention as he might excel more without the burdens of captaincy, enabling him to concentrate on his performance.
Rishabh Pant’s Legacy with Delhi Capitals
Pant has been an essential player for the Delhi Capitals since his IPL debut in 2016. He is the most capped player in the franchise’s 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.
Could Shreyas Iyer Return as Captain?
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 team’s direction could be pivotal in influencing their strategic plans.
Rishabh Pant’s Remarkable Comeback After Adversity
Pant’s 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 India’s 280-run victory, contributing significantly to the team’s 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.
What Impact Has Rishabh Pant’s Return Had on Team Dynamics and Fans?
Pant’s 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.
How is Rishabh Pant Managing His Workload and Future Role?
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 as a player and a leader.
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Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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