IPL 2025: Why is Axar Patel not playing in MI vs DC clash?

Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians are hosting Delhi Capitals in the important IPL 2025 clash on Wednesday evening (May 21). While it is an important match for both teams, who are fighting to secure the last spot in the IPL 2025 Playoffs, Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel is missing the game. Here, you will know the reason for the DC skipper's absence from the game.

While both teams are set for their 13th game of the season, it is a must-win match for both teams. Delhi Capitals, who have 13 points, can't afford a winless result in this game as it will cost them elimination from the tournament. Mumbai Indians have 14 points, and with a win in this match will be enough for them to secure their spot for the Playoffs.

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IPL 2025, MI vs DC: Why is Axar Patel not playing?

During the toss at Wankhede Stadium, Delhi Capitals' fans were shocked when Faf du Plessis came for the toss instead of the regular captain Axar Patel. DC stand-in skipper Du Plessis won the toss and chose to field first. At the toss, the former South African revealed that Axar Patel was missing the match due to being down with a really bad flu.

Axar Patel has significant contributions with bat 

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel is the fourth most run-scorer for his team in the ongoing IPL season, scoring 263 runs in 11 innings with an average of 26.30 and a strike rate of 157.48. The left-handed batter's scores in the last few matches were 34, 39, 34*, 15, 43, 6, and 25 runs.  Meanwhile, as a left-arm spinner, the DC skipper has taken five wickets this season. 

Delhi Capitals are winless in their last four games, including three losses and one no result. They must end their winless run in the away fixture against Mumbai Indians to stay in the battle for the IPL 2025 Playoffs.