IPL 2026: Instinct and flexibility is Akshar Patel’s captaincy mantra, openly expressed displeasure on Impact Player rule

News India Live, Digital Desk: Before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Delhi Capitals (DC) captain Axar Patel has given a big statement regarding his captaincy style and team strategy. In exclusive interactions and recent press conferences, Akshar made it clear that he relies more on his ‘instincts’ and ‘flexible mindset’ as per the circumstances rather than data and match-ups. In his second season of captaincy, Akshar aims to lead Delhi Capitals to their first historic title.1. ‘Don’t use sword to cut vegetables’: Akshar’s captaincy style Akshar Patel gave an interesting example while explaining his captaincy philosophy. He said, “I definitely take data and match-ups into consideration, but do not depend completely on them. You do not use a sword to cut vegetables. My captaincy changes according to the circumstances.” Akshar considers himself an ‘instinctive captain’ who believes in taking quick decisions on the field.2. Impact Player rule: “I’m not a fan of it” The Delhi captain has strongly criticized the ‘Impact Player’ rule. Akshar believes that this rule has reduced the importance of all-rounders. Rationale: According to Akshar, earlier teams used to choose all-rounders for balance, but now they bring in a ‘specialist’ batsman or bowler as an impact player. Personal opinion: “To be honest, I don’t like this rule because I am an all-rounder myself,” he candidly said. However, he also added that rules are rules and the team will have to adapt to them.3. ‘Crisis Man’ and flexibility in batting order. Talking about his batting role, Akshar said that he is ready to play at any number as per the need of the team. Flexibility: He sees himself as a ‘floater’. If the team needs stability, he can come in the middle order, and if he wants to score fast runs, he can play the role of finisher. Objective: He clarified that expecting a fixed role and not getting it affects the game, so he keeps his mind open to every challenge.4. Team atmosphere: “No discussion on old defeats” Delhi Capitals has missed the title many times by coming close to it. Akshar told that he does not talk about past failures in the dressing room or ‘not winning the title till now’. He believes that such discussions put unnecessary pressure on the team. They want to create a positive and fearless environment where players can showcase their natural game without any fear.5. Squad Update: Doubt over Mitchell Starc Delhi may face a big blow before the start of IPL 2026. Star fast bowler Mitchell Starc has not yet received NOC from Cricket Australia and is likely to be out of the initial matches. Akshar indicated that T. Natarajan could emerge as a strong option in Starc’s absence.