Delhi Capitals (DC) Announces A New Vice-captain Ahead Of IPL 2025

In a significant leadership shake-up ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Delhi Capitals (DC) have announced former South African captain Faf du Plessis as their vice-captain. The franchise made the announcement via their official X handle, reinforcing their leadership structure for the upcoming season. This move comes after DC appointed Axar Patel as captain, following the release of Rishabh Pant ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.

With du Plessis’ immense leadership experience and strategic mind, Delhi Capitals aim to rebuild their squad with a strong leadership team, hoping to clinch their maiden IPL title. But can this change finally propel DC to their long-awaited first championship win? Let’s break down what this move means for the franchise and how it sets the tone for IPL 2025.

Delhi Capitals Restructure Leadership Team for IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals have had a rollercoaster journey in recent years, with their last playoff appearance coming in IPL 2021. Since their runner-up finish in IPL 2020, where they lost the final to Mumbai Indians, DC have struggled with inconsistency, injuries, and frequent leadership changes.

Despite assembling strong squads every season, Delhi has not managed to convert potential into trophies, much like Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)—two other teams that have been part of IPL since its inception in 2008 but are still awaiting their first title.

However, ahead of IPL 2025, DC have taken bold steps to transform their team. The appointment of Axar Patel as captain and Faf du Plessis as vice-captain signals a new era for the franchise. With these changes, DC is betting on experience, stability, and fresh leadership to finally end their trophy drought.

The Axar Patel – Faf du Plessis Partnership: A Strong Leadership Duo?

Axar Patel: The Indian all-rounder has been an integral part of DC’s setup for years and has now been given the responsibility of leading the team. His calm demeanor, match-winning capabilities, and experience in pressure situations make him a solid choice.
Faf du Plessis: A veteran with over 4000 IPL runs, du Plessis has captained RCB for two seasons and led them to the playoffs in IPL 2022. His experience in high-pressure situations and ability to mentor young players will be crucial for Delhi Capitals.

This combination of an emerging Indian leader and a seasoned overseas veteran could work wonders for DC, provided they get their strategy right.

Faf du Plessis’ IPL Journey & Why Delhi Capitals Signed Him

From RCB Captain to DC Vice-Captain: A New Chapter for Du Plessis

Faf du Plessis was one of the most experienced captains in IPL 2024, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). However, his inconsistent performances and age led RCB to release him before the IPL 2025 mega auction. Despite being a proven match-winner, he went unsold in the initial rounds of the auction before DC picked him up for just INR 2 Crore—an absolute bargain given his stature.

Why DC Wanted Du Plessis in Their Leadership Core

Experience in Leadership – Having captained RCB and South Africa, du Plessis knows how to lead a side in pressure situations. His presence ensures stability in the Delhi Capitals’ camp.
Reliable Opening Batter – With over 4000 IPL runs, he remains one of the most dependable openers in T20 cricket. His ability to play both anchor and aggressor roles is an asset.
Mentorship Role for Young Players – DC has several young Indian players, and du Plessis’ experience will help groom them. His partnership with Axar Patel could bring balance to the squad.
Big Match Player – He has performed in crucial games in previous IPL seasons, including finals and playoffs. His ability to deliver when it matters most is something DC desperately needs.

Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 Squad: A Winning Combination?

DC has always been one of the strongest teams on paper, but their lack of execution in key matches has cost them dearly. However, IPL 2025 brings a new opportunity, with a refreshed squad and new leadership at the helm.

Key Players for IPL 2025

Batting Core

KL Rahul – The Indian opener was a blockbuster signing for DC in the auction, bringing much-needed stability.
Faf du Plessis – His experience and leadership will be vital in anchoring the innings.
Prithvi Shaw – If he regains form, he could be DC’s explosive powerplay weapon.
David Warner – The veteran left-hander remains a game-changer on his day.

All-Rounders & Leadership Team

Axar Patel (Captain) – His all-round abilities and leadership make him the backbone of the team.
Mitchell Marsh – A proven match-winner, capable of contributing with both bat and ball.
Faf du Plessis (Vice-Captain) – His role in guiding Axar Patel and helping DC in crucial moments will be significant.

Bowling Attack

Mitchell Starc – The Australian speedster was Delhi’s most expensive signing, adding firepower to the pace attack.
Anrich Nortje – Known for his express pace, he will be DC’s strike bowler.
Kuldeep Yadav – The star wrist-spinner adds variety to the attack.

Can Delhi Capitals End Their IPL Trophy Drought in 2025?

What Has Held DC Back in Previous Seasons?

Despite having a strong squad, DC has consistently fallen short in crunch moments. Some key issues they faced include:

Inconsistent Performances – Some seasons, DC starts strong but loses momentum midway.
Lack of Finishing Power – Middle-order collapses have often cost them matches.
Frequent Captaincy Changes – The leadership shift from Shreyas Iyer to Rishabh Pant, and now to Axar Patel has caused instability.
Injury Setbacks – Key players like Pant and Nortje have missed crucial matches due to injuries.

What’s Different in IPL 2025?

Stronger Leadership – The duo of Axar Patel and Faf du Plessis brings stability.
Explosive Batting Lineup – With KL Rahul, Faf, Warner, and Shaw, the top order looks solid.
Starc’s Inclusion – The presence of Mitchell Starc gives Delhi one of the best pace attacks in the tournament.
Better Squad Depth – DC’s auction strategy focused on having quality backups, reducing reliance on a few players.

What Will DC Need to Do to Win IPL 2025?

Convert Strong Starts into Match Wins
Avoid Middle-Order Collapses
Utilize Experienced Players in High-Pressure Matches
Maintain a Winning Combination & Avoid Frequent Changes

With a balanced team, experienced leaders, and aggressive signings, Delhi Capitals have one of their best chances yet to finally win the IPL title. The heat is on Axar Patel and Faf du Plessis to lead from the front and deliver success.

Will IPL 2025 finally be DC’s year? Or will their hunt for a maiden IPL trophy continue? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—Delhi Capitals are a team to watch out for this season!

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