As per the latest reports, Delhi Capitals wicket-keeper batter KL Rahul has emerged as the leading candidate for the captaincy role ahead of IPL 2027. KL Rahul is likely to replace Axar Patel as captain of the Delhi Capitals franchise. KL Rahul had a very successful season with the bat and has previously led teams like PBKS and LSG. He has also led the Indian side and has experience as a captain. This decision to remove Axar Patel comes after the side failed to qualify for the playoffs in the previous two years under his captaincy.  

Delhi Capitals had a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign under Axar Patel's captaincy where they started the season well but fell off and, in the end, struggled to make the top four. Delhi Capitals finished sixth in the points table and missed the playoffs for the fifth straight season, prompting the franchise to review its leadership plans ahead of the next edition. Axar Patel has led the side in the previous few seasons.  

KL Rahul most likely to take over Delhi Capitals captaincy

As per reports from Times of India report, KL Rahul has emerged as the leading contender to take over the Delhi Capitals captaincy ahead of IPL 2027. While the franchise is yet to make a final decision there are reports that the management is expected to hold further discussions on its leadership plans in the coming months.

No official statement has been released by the Delhi Capitals franchise yet but it is highly likely that Axar Patel is set to be replaced as captain of the side. The report said ‘’ It is still early days and the franchise will likely have more discussions on this front in the coming days. KL Rahul is emerging as a strong choice for management, but no decision has been made regarding this," the report stated.

KL Rahul shines with the bat for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026

KL Rahul enjoyed a very good IPL 2026 campaign and answered his critics with an aggressive approach at the crease. The wicketkeeper-batter scored 593 runs in 14 innings for Delhi Capitals at an average of 45.62 and an impressive strike rate of 174.41. He batted at the top of the order and played a lot of match winning knocks for his side. If he is indeed selected as the captain for the upcoming season, he will bring in a lot of experience having led a few franchises in the previous seasons.