KL Rahul Faces Fresh Competition For Delhi Capitals' Captaincy

Delhi Capitals Team In IPL 2026 (Source: AFP)

Delhi Capitals could be heading towards a fresh leadership change before the IPL 2027 season. It is worth noting that KL Rahul has reportedly emerged as a leading option to replace Axar Patel as captain.

The franchise is reportedly considering several changes after its IPL 2026 campaign. The Delhi-based franchise finished in 6th place in the points table with 7 wins and 7 defeats in 14 matches.

KL Rahul has already led several franchises in the IPL earlier and also remains an experienced member of the Delhi Capitals squad. However, he may not be the only player in the mix, as another name has emerged in the contention for DC’s captaincy ahead of IPL 2027. 

KL Rahul's Past Captaincy Puts Him In Contention For DC Captaincy

KL Rahul has considerable experience leading IPL teams. He previously captained Punjab Kings and also Lucknow Super Giants, giving him several seasons of experience in the role. 

That background could work in his favour as Delhi reviews its leadership plans. The stylish batter is also a familiar player in the squad.

Axar Patel has led Delhi in recent seasons, but the franchise could now consider a different approach for IPL 2027. The star player has played 27 matches for Delhi Capitals, scoring 1132 runs at an average of 49.22 and a strike rate of 161.71.

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KL Rahul’s IPL Captaincy Numbers

Rahul has captained in 64 IPL matches, winning 31 and losing 31, while two matches ended in ties. His win percentage stands at 48.43%.

(KL Rahul’s IPL Captaincy Numbers)

Tristan Stubbs Also Enters Delhi Capitals Leadership Discussion

It is important to note that Rahul could also face competition from Tristan Stubbs, who has reportedly become another option for the Delhi Capitals captaincy, according to reports from Sahil Malhotra (TOI).

The South African batter has grown into an important player for Delhi and has gained valuable leadership experience in the SA20. Tristan Stubbs took charge of Sunrisers Eastern Cape during the 2025/26 season and made an immediate impact by guiding the side to the title.

Playing for Delhi, the South African star has made 953 runs in 42 matches at an average of 45.38 and a strike rate of 155.46.

(Tristan Stubbs’ captaincy record)

Pratyush Halder

@pratyush_no7

🚨 Tristan Stubbs as next DC captain❔ DC is keeping two candidates on cards to takeover the captaincy baton. KL Rahul being the front-runner, Tristan Stubbs is also in the race. DC is considering Stubbs as a probable captaincy candidate because of his SA20 success. (Sahil

Sep 22, 2026, 8:42 PM

Delhi Capitals Also Looking At Changes Behind The Scenes

The captaincy discussion comes at a time when Delhi Capitals are reportedly considering changes to their coaching structure.

Sourav Ganguly is expected to take on a greater role around the team for the IPL 2027, while Yuvraj Singh has also been linked with a coaching position. 

If these changes take place, Delhi could begin the next season with a different leadership group.

The franchise therefore has several decisions to make before IPL 2027. The captaincy could become one of the biggest decisions, with KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs among the reported possibilities, while changes to the coaching setup could further reshape the team.

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