MI vs DC: Why is Axar Patel not Captaining Delhi Capitals Today? Who is the New Captain?

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In the IPL 2025 match today (May 21) between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, the DC have suffered a blow.

DC captain Axar Patel has missed out as he was not seen during the toss. Instead, South African legend Faf du Plessis came out for Toss, much to the surprise of many.

As the Capitals play this must win encounter against Mumbai, Axar Patel's absence is a huge loss for them. The Indian all-rounder has been excellent with both bat and ball but unfortunately he is unable to play in the match.

MI vs DC: Why is Axar Patel not Playing Today?

Axar Patel is not playing because of sickness. Although the cause of his sickness is unconfirmed, Patel was not able to play in the encounter.

Instead of Axar Patel, Faf du Plessis is leading the Capitals. The veteran was named as vice-captain at the start of the season and he confirmed the reason for Axar's absence.

"[Axar]Really sick in the last two days. We'll miss him today. Playing a good team today, we are up for it. We haven't been at our best in the last 5-6 games. Every day there's a new opportunity. Looks a bit dry, we're chasing. Axar is not there, Axar is two players and it's difficult to replace him. We'll see how it goes," Faf du Plessis said at the Toss.

Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to field first. A victory for them is imperative as a defeat would eliminate them from the competition.

DC Playing XI vs Mumbai Indians

Faf du Plessis(c), Abishek Pore l(wk), Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Madhav Tiwari, Kuldeep Yadav, Dushmantha Chameera, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Kumar