For Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser-McGurk, IPL 2025 has felt like walking through thick mud. The explosive batter who lit up the tournament last season has found himself battling poor form, with runs hard to come by and big scores becoming distant dreams. A recent exclusion from the playing XI has only added to his challenges. Yet, for the 23-year-old Australian — who has already shown immense promise and flair — this rough patch is just another chapter in the journey. And he isn’t shying away from admitting it publicly. As Delhi Capitals prepare for a crucial home clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Fraser-McGurk understands he might once again find himself on the bench, possibly listed among the impact substitutes. Still, his focus remains unwavering — he’s determined to add more runs to his name and bounce back stronger. “I’d love to have some more runs next to my name, but that’s the way cricket is sometimes. You go through highs, and you go through lows, and I think the IPL has shown me both across the two seasons,” Fraser-McGurk said at the pre-match press conference on the eve of the DC vs RCB fixture at Arun Jaitley Stadium. “The most important thing is to stay level, whether you’re going well or not. My role is to get the team off to a strong start, but that doesn’t mean swinging at every ball. I’m working really hard with the coaches and everyone around me to find a way back into the team and succeed,” he added. Fraser-McGurk’s inconsistent form, coupled with Faf du Plessis’ absence, has forced Delhi to reshuffle their top order. After experimenting with several combinations, the team seems to have temporarily settled on Abhishek Porel and Karun Nair as openers. However, with Du Plessis pushing hard for a comeback — he spent long hours in the nets on Saturday — a change could be on the cards as soon as Sunday’s game. Fraser-McGurk himself hinted that Du Plessis might be close to returning to action against his former franchise. Thriving Under Axar’s Leadership When an opener struggles, discussions with the captain, coach, and management often intensify. In such times, leadership can make all the difference. For Fraser-McGurk, Axar Patel‘s relaxed and supportive style has been a source of immense comfort. Describing Axar as a “best friend” who is always smiling, Fraser-McGurk shared a memorable moment: “We were having dinner after a game, and he said, ‘You’ve got so many more opportunities ahead. There’ll be many more times you’ll play for this franchise and succeed for us.'” Axar Patel and Jake Fraser-Mcgurk of Delhi Capitals during an IPL match. (BCCI Photo) “The good thing is we’re winning, and we’re doing it the way we want to. He always tells everyone to just keep smiling. Talking to Axar feels like chatting with a best mate rather than the captain. He’s been awesome,” he said. Even as challenges persist, Fraser-McGurk’s spirit remains unbroken. Backed by a winning team environment and a supportive leadership group, the young Australian is ready to turn the tide — with a smile on his face and belief in his heart.