IPL 2026 promises a unique and exciting season as all ten teams will be led by Indian captains — with not a single overseas skipper in charge. While some captains have a point to prove, others are riding high on recent T20 success. Here’s a look at what these leaders have been up to since IPL 2025 and what to expect from them this season.
Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
Patidar could be forgiven for believing he has the golden touch. RCB had come close to winning the IPL title multiple times in their first 17 seasons, only to fall short. But in their 18th season, with Patidar as captain, they finally seemed destined to lift the trophy. Since then, he led Central Zone to a Duleep Trophy title and was appointed captain of Madhya Pradesh across formats. However, a knee injury and poor form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy slowed his momentum. Now fit again, he will aim to guide RCB to glory once more.
Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings)
Iyer has been out of India’s T20 setup for a while and returns to the IPL with a point to prove. He led Punjab Kings from the front last season, highlighted by an unbeaten 87 off 41 balls in Qualifier 2 during a 204-run chase. Despite reaching the final, the team fell short. A spleen injury in Australia later sidelined him, and he missed key opportunities, including the T20 World Cup squad.
Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians)
Pandya has enjoyed a stellar run, winning major tournaments like the Champions Trophy, Asia Cup, and T20 World Cup with India. A key all-rounder, he has contributed both as a finisher and with the ball. After taking Mumbai Indians to the playoffs last year, he will aim to lead them to their first final since 2020. Questions remain about his role — whether he’ll take the new ball or focus on finishing games.
Shubman Gill (Gujarat Titans)
Gill’s journey has seen ups and downs. Once India’s T20 vice-captain, he fell out of the squad after inconsistent performances. Back in familiar IPL territory, the Ahmedabad pitches suit his batting style, but he will be keen to prove his adaptability in pressure situations.
Axar Patel (Delhi Capitals)
Often underrated, Axar played a crucial role in India’s recent T20 World Cup triumph, contributing with both bat and ball. He delivered a match-winning spell in the final against New Zealand. After narrowly missing the playoffs last season as captain, Axar returns more confident and determined to finish strong.
Ishan Kishan (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Kishan’s journey contrasts with Gill’s. After falling out of national plans, he bounced back with explosive performances, including two rapid centuries and leading Jharkhand to a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. He returned to India’s T20 side, played a key role in the World Cup win, and smashed 54 off 25 balls in the final. With Pat Cummins unavailable initially, Kishan gets a golden opportunity to lead SRH.
Rishabh Pant (Lucknow Super Giants)
Pant had a disappointing IPL last season, scoring just 269 runs in 14 innings, though he ended with a brilliant unbeaten 118. Injuries and inconsistent form have followed since, including a fractured leg and a side strain. Now back, Pant will look to rediscover consistency and turn his fortunes around with LSG.
Ajinkya Rahane (Kolkata Knight Riders)
This could be Rahane’s last IPL opportunity. KKR struggled last season, and at 37, time is not on his side. However, a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign — 391 runs at a strike rate of 161.57 — has earned him another shot. While intent is no longer an issue, lack of recent match practice could be a concern.
Riyan Parag (Rajasthan Royals)
Parag has evolved from a promising youngster into a key figure for RR. After leading the side in Sanju Samson’s absence last season, he now takes over as full-time captain. He scored 393 runs in eight matches, but inconsistent domestic form followed. At just 24, RR will hope he regains his touch quickly.
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Chennai Super Kings)
Gaikwad will hope third time’s the charm. Handed leadership by MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2024, he guided CSK to fifth place. Injury cut his campaign short last year, and CSK finished at the bottom. However, his strong ODI form, including multiple centuries, signals a confident comeback as he continues to lead the franchise.
