It was a bittersweet win for Delhi Capitals (DC) captain Axar Patel at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. While DC pulled off their highest run chase ever, chasing down 226 with five balls to spare against Rajasthan Royals, Axar wasn’t a happy man. He mourned the loss of two DC fans who lost their lives in a road accident after defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Delhi. The all-rounder dedicated the win to them.
“After the tragedy involving some of our fans after the previous game, I just want to say - sorry for your loss. This win is dedicated to them. We lost two members connected with our DC family,” Axar said in the post-match presentation.
On April 30, DC had shared a post of their fans – Abhav and Yagya Bhatia.
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“We mourn the tragic loss of Abhav (14) and Yagya Bhatia (20), members of the DC Toli.
“They have been in the stands with us, cheering for Dilli. Today, we stand with their families and loved ones in this moment of unimaginable grief.
“Rest in peace, Abhav and Yagya. You will always be remembered.”
Axar on his captaincy
Axar bowled four overs, conceded 39 runs and claimed the wicket of RR wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel. While DC got the wicket of menacing 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi early in the innings, they still conceded 225/6 as RR skipper Riyan Parag regained form with a 50-ball 90 and Donovan Ferreira contributed with an unbeaten 14-ball 47. Axar opened up about his captaincy and trusting instincts.
“Even when I was with the Indian team, I was working in leadership roles and that helps a lot. In the IPL, you have overseas players and Indian players to manage, and at the same time your decision-making becomes very important. I think I’ve grown in that aspect. I don’t overthink as much now. I back what I feel and trust my instincts. We also have our coaches and support staff, so the whole think tank is helping. The results are showing that we’re moving in the right direction and backing yourself becomes very important,” said the 32-year-old.
DC move up the table
This was DC's fourth win of the season. They climbed one place to take sixth spot on the points table. They need to win at least four of their next five games to have a chance of qualifying for the playoffs.