Faf du Plessis is leading Delhi Capitals. Photo: BCCI
Delhi Capitals (DC) are without the services of their full-time captain, Axar Patel for their must-win game against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday (May 21). Faf du Plessis, who was named DC's vice-captain before the season, is leading the visiting team in his absence. du Plessis etched his name in record books and created history when he stepped on the field to lead DC.
du Plessis is now the first captain to lead Delhi Capitals after turning 40. The veteran batsman is 40 years and 312 days old. He joined DC in the IPL 2025 mega-auction at his base price of Rs 2 crore.
du Plessis is the former captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and has ample captaincy experience. He led the Bengaluru-based franchise in IPL 2022, 2023 and 2024. RCB made it to the second round in 2022 and 2024.
Who is the oldest captain in IPL?
MS Dhoni holds the record of being the oldest captain in IPL. The Indian cricket legend is leading Chennai Super Kings. He is 43 years and 317 days old. He is followed by Shane Warne, who was 41 years and 249 days old when he last captained Rajasthan Royals. He is followed by Adam Gilchrist.
Why Axar Patel is not playing vs Mumbai Indians?
Speaking to Ravi Shastri at the toss, du Plessis revealed that Axar was down with flu. "Unfortunate for him, really sick in the last two days, down with flu, so we wish him all the best. He's been excellent for us this season, and we'll definitely miss him today," he said.
KL Rahul is playing the fixture as an Impact Player. The reason behind him not fielding isn't known yet. Rahul slammed a century in the previous game against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Delhi. The visitors won the game by 10 wickets.
