Axar Patel sounding hopeful about Faf du Plessis returning is a big boost for Delhi Capitals

Right — so it sounds like it’s still touch and go for Faf, but the signs are fairly positive! Axar’s comment about "three matches" suggests the recovery timeline was always going to be tight, but the fact that there’s hope for the Gujarat Titans clash shows he’s probably progressing well. Given that DC have found ways to win even without him — especially that gritty, dramatic win over RR — his return could give them the perfect balance between stability and firepower at the top. Also, facing GT's bowling attack, especially on their home turf, could really use Faf’s calmness and experience, especially if the pitch offers any assistance to the seamers early on. Exactly — that little detail about the sprint off Axar’s bowling tells you everything about how the injury likely happened. One of those classic soft-tissue tweaks you only feel the full effect of once the adrenaline wears off, which probably explains why Faf still went out to bat later that day, even if it didn’t look comfortable. DC have actually done a brilliant job managing without him — Porel’s rise has been a real bonus, especially since he wasn't even a lock for the XI at the start of the season. The fact that he’s second on the run charts for them behind KL Rahul speaks volumes about his temperament and form. And yeah, Fraser-McGurk’s numbers are the real weak link at the moment. He’s a huge talent, but a strike rate of just 105 for a power-hitter in the IPL is tough to justify, especially with Stubbs making himself undroppable. Once du Plessis is fit, the most natural swap feels like Faf sliding in at the top and Fraser-McGurk making way.