IPL 2025: Axar Patel Expects Faf du Plessis to Be Cleared by Physios for GT Match

New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) Axar Patel, the captain of Delhi Capitals (DC), expressed optimism about the return of vice-captain Faf du Plessis for their upcoming clash against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday. He noted that the physio will update him on du Plessis' match fitness.

Du Plessis has been sidelined for DC’s previous games against Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Rajasthan Royals due to an undisclosed injury, which details remain undisclosed. “So far, I have been informed that he won’t be participating for three matches. He has been undergoing recovery, and since two matches have passed, there’s a possibility he could play against Gujarat, but that depends on the physios evaluating his injury,” Axar stated during the post-match conference.

While Abishek Porel has adapted well as an opener in du Plessis' absence, a fit du Plessis could replace Jake Fraser-McGurk, who has only managed 55 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 105.76. Axar, however, mentioned that Fraser-McGurk will continue to receive opportunities to improve.

“My perspective is slightly different. If there’s no strong start, yet we are performing well, you have that advantage. When you lack a strong start but still win, you can afford to stick with the same lineup. I had the same thought - that box isn’t being checked. However, Fraser-McGurk had performed well at this venue last year and was in good form for us,” he elaborated.

“He is a player who can turn the match in our favor if given a chance and scores big runs. I acknowledge that box isn’t being checked, but we continually communicate with him about his thoughts and feelings during practice. Yes, that discourse is ongoing. However, when the team is winning, you reflect on these decisions differently.”

“Moreover, we have that buffer which allows us to provide him with more chances. Anyone I give a chance to, I ensure they get a fair run. He is a match-winner and crucial for my plans. We will keep deliberating on what actions to take. For now, we’ve secured a win, so we’ll enjoy it,” he added.

This marks Axar's first experience in a full-time leadership role within the IPL, and he conveyed that he is relishing the responsibilities, with an emphasis on backing his decision-making capabilities.

“I enjoy being a captain. After assuming this role, I applied what I learned from state cricket and understood how to lead. When you get the opportunity to guide the team as you see fit, and play the style of cricket you prefer, it’s an opportunity not to be missed. Therefore, I’m enjoying it both on and off the field.”

“I make decisions based on my instincts rather than adhering to a strict template. I trust myself in what I believe is right. My experience isn’t vast since it’s my first time, but I’m not merely following others’ guidance. I listen to feedback but ultimately, when it’s decision-making time, I rely on my judgment.”

When asked how he responds if certain leadership choices don’t pan out as expected, Axar responded, “I can’t speak for others, but I believe that acknowledging a mistake isn’t wrong. I wouldn’t categorize it as a mistake; rather, it’s a tactical choice. If you have two left-handers and need to remove one bowler, you have to work with the resources available and make the best decision at that moment.”

“Sometimes it succeeds, other times it doesn’t. Therefore, I couldn’t label it as a mistake. It’s more about whether the decision was effective. When it works, you feel validated; when it doesn’t, it’s part of the game.”

In the match against RR, Axar finally showcased his batting prowess, scoring 34 runs off 14 balls, significantly contributing to DC’s total of 188/5. Axar acknowledged the temptation to promote himself in the batting order but emphasized team needs first.

“It’s not about personal preference. As a player, I adjust my batting according to the team’s requirements. As a captain, I will step up if it aligns with our strategy; otherwise, I won’t. I make those decisions accordingly. Yes, it’s alluring since I’m the captain, but ultimately, it’s about the team.”

“I struggled to make an impact early on. I’m not sure if it was due to a soft dismissal or over-aggressiveness. Nonetheless, I was clear about my targets and who to avoid.”

“When a fast bowler is on, I recognize their slower bouncer and choose not to target them, waiting for spinners instead. I focused on my strengths in batting, which yielded positive results.”

Axar also celebrated capturing his first wicket of the tournament, dismissing Riyan Parag, and shared his struggles with a finger injury sustained during the Champions Trophy campaign in Dubai. “During the Champions Trophy, I cut my finger, and the skin hasn’t fully healed. I’ve been cautious, bowling only when the team needed me.”

“However, after bowling four overs against SRH, the skin had come off again. Consequently, I couldn’t put the required pressure on it and bowl as effectively as I desired. Now that my finger is in better condition, I believe that had I caught the previous catch, I could have taken the second wicket too.”

“But that’s part of the game, and I don’t dwell too much on it. If I bowl well, I focus less on the wickets. What matters is executing my plans correctly; if I achieve that, I don’t worry about the outcome.”

Axar concluded by expressing his satisfaction with securing a win in the Super Over as DC captain, though he mentioned the need for improvement in fielding. “It was my first time in such a leadership scenario. Winning demonstrates the team’s morale and confidence. It reflects the character of the team.”

“This experience was valuable for me as a captain, revealing how the team can perform under pressure. I am proud of how my team is playing and executing our strategies. We must enhance our fielding, but we’ll focus on that in the upcoming match.”