The Delhi Capitals batting coach has thrown his weight behind all-rounder Axar Patel, despite the player enduring a lean patch with the bat in the recent domestic season. The coach also heaped praise on KL Rahul for his continuous evolution as a batter, highlighting his adaptability and technical improvements.
Axar Patel Backed Despite Off-Season
Axar Patel, who has been a vital cog in the Delhi Capitals setup, had a below-par run in the domestic circuit, scoring only 289 runs in 10 matches at an average of 28.90. However, the batting coach remains confident in his abilities. "Axar is a quality player, and we have full faith in his capabilities. He has been working hard on his game, and we are sure he will bounce back strongly in the IPL," the coach stated.
The left-hander's contributions with both bat and ball have been crucial for DC over the years. His ability to anchor innings and provide late-order fireworks makes him an indispensable asset. The coaching staff believes that a change of format and the familiar environment of the IPL will help him rediscover his form.
KL Rahul's Game Evolution
KL Rahul, who joined DC as a marquee player, has been lauded for his evolving batting approach. The batting coach noted that Rahul has added more dimensions to his game, particularly against spin and in the middle overs. "KL has worked tremendously on his game. He is no longer just a powerplay aggressor; he now rotates strike effectively and accelerates when needed. His 360-degree game is a testament to his hard work," the coach added.
Rahul's ability to adapt to different batting positions and situations has been a highlight. In the previous season, he scored 520 runs at a strike rate of 142, often anchoring the innings while allowing others to play around him. The coach expects him to play a pivotal role in DC's campaign this year.
Team's Preparations for IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the upcoming IPL season. The team has focused on building a balanced squad with a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent. The batting unit, in particular, looks formidable with the likes of David Warner, Rishabh Pant, and Mitchell Marsh alongside Axar and Rahul.
Speaking about the team's strategy, the coach emphasized the importance of adaptability. "We have a deep batting lineup, and we want our players to express themselves. The conditions in different venues will demand flexibility, and we are preparing accordingly," he said.
With the IPL 2025 set to begin in March, DC will be keen to improve upon their performance from last season, where they finished fifth. The backing of key players like Axar Patel and the evolution of KL Rahul could be instrumental in their quest for the title.
