Delhi Capitals (DC) endured a big jolt ahead of the must-win IPL 2025 tie against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Regular skipper Axar Patel misses the tie and experienced Faf du Plessis will be leading the unit. The Proteas player informed Axar is under the weather and has been sick for the last two days.
"He has been really ill for the last two days, down with flu. We'll miss him today," du Plessis said after winning the toss and opting to field.
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Speaking about the team composition, Du Plessis acknowledged a player of Axar's calibre is difficult to replace. "A great bowler and brilliant batter. Axar is not there, Axar is two players and it's difficult to replace him. We'll see how it goes," du Plessis added.
Fast-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari from Madhya Pradesh has been included in the playing XI in place Axar. Meanwhile, KL Rahul also wasn't included in the playing XI and has been named as one of the Impact Substitute.
Speaking on the tie and what's at stake, Du Plessis said: "The last game of the season, you have a crack to get to the top four, you'll smile and you'll grab that opportunity with both hands. Playing a good team today, we are ready for it. We haven't been at our best in the last 5-6 games. Everyday there's a new opportunity,. Looks a bit different to a normal Wankhede wicket, a bit dry, so we're sticking with the tone of the campaign and chasing."
Meanwhile, Du Plessis is now the fourth oldest player to lead a team in IPL. The list is headed by MS Dhoni and features the likes of Shane Warne, Adam Gilchrist, and Rahul Dravid.
Oldest captains in IPL
43y 317d - MS Dhoni
41y 249d - Shane Warne
41y 185d - Adam Gilchrist
40y 312d - Faf du Plessis
40y 133d - Rahul Dravid
*age at the time of their last/most recent match as captain
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