Axar's plea came after DC were hammered by RCB on Monday.
Delhi Capitals (DC) were outclassed by nine wickets in their IPL 2026 match against Royals Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday (April 27).
Invited to bat first, the Capitals were bowled out for a mere 75 in 16.3 overs and RCB gunned down the paltry target with 81 deliveries to spare.
This was DC’s fifth defeat in the last six outings. They had started their campaign with two straight wins against LSG and MI but have completely lost their momentum, currently languishing at seventh spot in the league table with 6 points from 8 games.
Following the heavy loss, DC skipper Axar Patel made a humble appeal, urging the franchise's fanbase to remain steadfast in their support.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Axar emphasized that the team is also hurting and that true support is most valuable during such difficult times.
“You spoke about the fanbase. I can just console them by saying that if the fans are disheartened, the players are, too. After so much hard work, we do not play to lose. I think this is the time they should support the players. It shouldn't be that you only support us when we win. Whether we win or lose, support should remain the same,” Axar told reporters.
“The important thing is that you are supporting a team. Continue that and have trust and belief. As a captain, I trust my team. That belief is very important. I have faith that we can change it all around,” he added.
Reflecting on the dismal show against RCB, Axar suggested the team was still mentally recovering from their previous match where they failed to defend 264 against Punjab Kings.
"What happened in the last game, when we lost after scoring 264, may have had an effect. There was hesitation from the batters. Other than that, it was bad luck. The batters just kept getting out within a few balls. We will just have to forget this day and move on,” he remarked.
Axar Patel acknowledged the brilliance of RCB pacers Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who claimed four and three wickets respectively to dismantle DC in their own den.
“Bhuvneshwar and Hazlewood are world-class bowlers who held a good length," Axar stated.
Delhi Capitals will next face Rajasthan Royals on Friday (May 1) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.