Axar Patel Charts His Own Path as Captain, Says 'I'm Not Following a Template'

Axar Patel is enjoying a dream debut season as captain in the IPL, guiding Delhi Capitals (DC) to five wins in six matches and emerging as one of the standout leaders of the 2025 tournament. Despite this being his first outing as skipper in the IPL, Axar has made it clear that he's not following any pre-defined template — instead, he’s leaning on his instincts, clarity of thought, and trust in his players.

Following Delhi’s dramatic Super Over win against Rajasthan Royals, Axar opened up about his leadership approach, his use of data, and how he's striking the balance between creating a light-hearted atmosphere and keeping standards high.

“I am having a lot of fun on the field and off the field. I am doing what I think is right. I am not following a template. I back myself,” Axar said at the post-match press conference. “Of course, I listen to everyone, but I trust the decisions I am making. You need to know what you're doing right and what you're doing wrong.”

Data vs Instinct: Striking the Balance

In an era where match-ups and analytics often dictate T20 strategies, Axar maintains that while planning and data are important, they don’t override what he sees unfolding on the field.

“It’s not like I only go by instincts. There’s a lot of planning in the background. But I don’t just follow the data word-for-word — it doesn’t always work that way,” he said.
“I go by what’s 60-40 or 70-30 in our favour. If a player is in form, I take that into account. Sometimes it’s a gamble, but it’s based on what feels right for the team.”

Leadership Style: Friendly, Yet Focused

Axar emphasized the importance of a positive team environment but said it's vital that players don't mistake the captain’s relaxed nature for leniency.

“I want to keep the team atmosphere friendly and lively, but no one should take things for granted,” he said. “There’s a line. We do what’s needed to win first — then we have fun. That’s the approach, and it’s working.”

On Learning from Mistakes

Axar is also open about the learning curve that comes with captaincy and believes owning up to decisions — good or bad — is key to growth.

“If I make a mistake, I’ll own up to it. But sometimes, it’s not a mistake — it’s just a call that didn’t work,” he said. “If it works, you’re praised. If it doesn’t, you’re criticised. I just do what I feel is right.”

Managing a Bowling Injury

Axar’s bowling appearances have been limited in IPL 2025 due to a lingering injury to the index finger of his bowling hand, which he sustained during the Champions Trophy.

“The skin hasn’t healed properly, so I was cautious. The whole layer came off when I bowled four overs against SRH. I only bowl when I feel the team really needs it,” he explained.

Despite the limited bowling, he claimed his first wicket of the season — Riyan Parag — in the match against Rajasthan Royals.

A Flexible Middle-Order Role

Axar has also adapted his batting role depending on match situations, often moving up or down the order. On Wednesday, he batted at No. 6 and scored a vital 34 off 14 balls.