IPL 2026: Former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has warned Axar Patel not to be casual while leading in the upcoming season. Axar, known for his calm on the field, has managed pressure well. Under his captaincy last season, Delhi Capitals started strong with four consecutive wins.
But the team lost momentum afterward, missing the playoffs despite 15 points and seven wins. Speaking on Star Sports, Pujara praised Axar's personality but urged him to maintain focus and not let momentum slip.
"Axar Patel is calm and handles pressure well. His personality fits the IPL, where pressure is high. He supports his players but needs to avoid becoming too relaxed. He should not get casual and lose momentum, as happened last year with DC. He must watch for that this season," Pujara told Star Sports.
ALSO READ: IPL 2026: Can Delhi Capitals Finally Break Their Trophy Curse?
Following these observations on Axar's captaincy, attention has also turned to his bowling performance in IPL 2026.
Axar struggled with the ball last season, taking just five wickets in 12 matches at an average of 67.60 and an economy rate of 8.47. Nonetheless, Mohammad Kaif remains hopeful the DC skipper will bounce back this season.
Kaif believes Axar will bowl with the new ball in IPL 2026, as Delhi also has Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam in the squad.
ALSO READ: Kuldeep Yadav Seeks Blessings From Ravindra Jadeja & Rivaba In Touching Gesture | Watch
"Axar Patel can bowl with the new ball in the power play. Last year, he took a few wickets as he lacked runs to defend. He will bowl with the new ball again, alongside Kuldeep and Vipraj Nigam, so I’m not worried. Last season wasn’t great, but he will come back strong," Kaif told Star Sports.
Axar enters the new season in good form, having taken 11 wickets in seven matches at an average of 18.63.