For the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Delhi Capitals (DC) have named Akshar Patel as the vice-captain.
The spin all-rounder will play the role of deputy to David Warner, who has been appointed captain in the absence of regular skipper Rishabh Pant, who is recovering from multiple injuries sustained in a car crash last December.
Speaking about his new role with the franchise, Akshar said, “In my opinion, if you have gotten this role that means you are growing as a senior player. It’s like getting reward for what all you’ve done for the team.”
“I’m excited for this role. Our team is mostly the same…we have the same players from the last 3-4 years. We know our players well and that will be an important point,” he added.
On having Warner as the captain of the team, Akshar said, “David is a talented player. I will provide him an atmosphere where he can use his abilities.”
“It’s a different feeling altogether when you join DC Camp. It’s been 3-4 years with the franchise now and it feels like home,” the 29-year-old further stated.
With the COVID-19 pandemic now on decline, the cash-rich tournament will go back to the home-and-away format from this season and DC will play their first home match at Arun Jaitley Stadium against Gujarat Titans on April 4.
Akshar Patel said it’ll be important for the team to have their fans’ support.
“We are playing here at Kotla after so long. I feel it will be really important. We will have our fans here and I’m sure they’d be excited to cheer for us.”
In another video posted by Delhi Capitals on Twitter, Akshar Patel shared a heartwarming message for Rishabh Pant.
“I am continuously in touch with him. I told him, ‘Bhai dekh, apna toh dil se rishta hai (We have a deep bond). Whether I come to see you or not, I’m there for you.”
“Our main leader is injured. We will miss you a lot bhai. Recover quickly, we’ll take care of the upcoming season but we’ll always need you. No one can take your place. The entire Delhi team and support staff is praying for his quick recovery and that he returns to cricket soon,” he added.
While the IPL 2023 is slated to get underway on March 31, Delhi Capitals will open their campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1.
