Delhi Capitals (DC) IPL may be headed for a change of leadership before the 2027 season, because Akshar Patel Reportedly reluctant to continue as captain. The all-rounder has led the franchise for two seasons, but Delhi have failed to qualify for the playoffs during his tenure, extending their wait to reach the knockouts from 2021 onwards.

According to the report, the franchise management is trying to convince Akshar to reconsider his decision considering his importance. However, with the November 17 retention deadline and December 16 mini-auction approaching, the Capitals may have to make a decision on their leadership position soon. In this context, here are three players who can replace Axar as DC captain in IPL 2027.

3. Nitish Rana

Nitish Rana May emerge as an outside contender for the captaincy of Delhi Capitals, although he is not one of the first names. The left-handed batsman has already led an IPL franchise when he signed with India in the 2023 season. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) When Shreyas Iyer Was out due to injury. Rana led Kolkata to six wins in 14 matches, helping the team finish seventh in the table.

Interestingly, the added responsibility also improved Rana's batting performance. He scored 413 runs in 14 matches at an average of 31.77 and a strike rate of 140.96, which is the only IPL season in which he crossed the 400-run mark. He also has the experience of leading Delhi in domestic white-ball cricket, while his familiarity with the city's cricketing environment could work in his favour.

Rana may not have the leadership experience like the other candidates, but if the Capitals do not want to give the captaincy burden to one of their established stars, he could provide a stable option. His appointment may also serve as a temporary arrangement while the franchise assesses its long-term leadership plans.

2. Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant His return to Delhi Capitals before IPL 2027 can bring him into the captaincy discussion. The wicketkeeper-batsman previously led the franchise from 2021 to 2024 and helped them reach the playoffs in the 2021 season. He has a record of 23 wins from 43 matches as DC captain, making him one of the most successful leaders of the franchise.

Although Pant's recent captaincy tenure Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) Couldn't deliver the expected results, but his familiarity with the Delhi setup could make him a strong candidate. The Capitals have made significant efforts to bring him back, including Kuldeep Yadav which shows the importance of their return.

A fresh start in a familiar franchise could help Pant rediscover his best form as both a batsman and leader. However, the management will have to consider whether handing him the captaincy immediately is the right move, especially when a more experienced leadership option is already part of the squad.

1. KL Rahul

KL Rahul He could be the strongest candidate to replace Patel as Delhi Capitals captain in IPL 2027, given he has extensive experience in the role. he first Punjab Kings (PBKS) And has led Lucknow Super Giants, taking Lucknow to the playoffs in his first two seasons. Rahul has led India in all three formats, giving him ample experience in handling leadership responsibilities.

The wicketkeeper-batsman has enjoyed a successful stint with Delhi since joining the franchise in 2025. In IPL 2026, he scored 593 runs in 14 matches at an average of 45.62 and a strike rate of 174.41. His ability to provide stability at the top of the order, coupled with his experience leading different teams, makes him an attractive choice for the role.

Former Indian batsman Aakash Chopra recently discussed the uncertainty around Delhi's captaincy position and suggested that Rahul could be in the running. With the franchise looking to end its playoff drought, the appointment of an experienced leader could provide the stability needed for the fresh start. However, the management will also have to consider whether the added responsibility could affect Rahul's batting performance.