IPL 2026 Captains List (Expected): Who Will Lead Each Team?
As IPL 2024 has concluded, fans are already looking ahead to IPL 2026, especially around team captains. While official announcements will depend on auctions, player form, and team strategies, several franchises are expected to continue with their current leaders or groom long-term captains.
Here’s a team-wise look at the expected captains for IPL 2026, along with insights into possible changes.
Expected IPL 2026 Captains (Team-wise)
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad is expected to continue as CSK captain in IPL 2026. With MS Dhoni stepping away from leadership duties, CSK has shown confidence in Ruturaj as a long-term leader who understands the franchise culture.
Why likely:
Young leader with calm temperament
Backed strongly by CSK management
Proven consistency with the bat
Delhi Capitals (DC) – Axar Patel
Axar Patel has emerged as a strong leadership candidate for Delhi Capitals. His all-round ability and tactical awareness make him a reliable option going forward.
Why likely:
Senior Indian core player
Leadership experience in pressure situations
Trusted by team management
Gujarat Titans (GT) – Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill is expected to remain Gujarat Titans’ captain in IPL 2026. As one of India’s top batters across formats, GT sees him as a long-term investment.
Why likely:
Franchise player
Excellent batting form
Calm and composed leader
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Rishabh Pant
If fully fit and active, Rishabh Pant is expected to lead LSG in IPL 2026. His aggressive mindset and leadership experience with Delhi Capitals make him a natural choice.
Why likely:
Proven IPL captaincy experience
Match-winner with bat
Strong on-field presence
Mumbai Indians (MI) – Hardik Pandya (subject to change)
Hardik Pandya is currently the frontrunner for MI captaincy in IPL 2026, though this remains a sensitive and evolving situation after leadership transitions.
Why uncertain:
Leadership dynamics post-auction
Fan and team balance
Rohit Sharma factor
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Pat Cummins
World Cup-winning captain Pat Cummins is expected to continue leading SRH. His calm leadership style has already made a positive impact.
Why likely:
Proven international captain
Tactical brilliance
Respected globally
Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson is expected to remain Rajasthan Royals’ captain in IPL 2026. RR has consistently backed him as both leader and batter.
Why likely:
Long-term captain
Strong Indian core support
Consistent IPL performances
Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Shreyas Iyer (possible)
PBKS captaincy remains unclear. Shreyas Iyer is a strong candidate if retained or acquired, but the franchise could explore other options post-auction.
Why uncertain:
Frequent leadership changes
Auction strategy dependent
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Rajat Patidar / Shreyas Iyer (unclear)
RCB’s captaincy for IPL 2026 is still open. Rajat Patidar is emerging as a leadership option, while an experienced player like Shreyas Iyer could also be considered.
Why uncertain:
Leadership reshuffle likely
Team balance considerations
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane is expected to lead KKR in IPL 2026, offering experience and stability to a squad filled with young talent.
Why likely:
Vast leadership experience
Calm and tactical approach
Ideal mentor for young players
Summary Table: Expected IPL 2026 Captains
| Team | Expected Captain |
|---|---|
| CSK | Ruturaj Gaikwad |
| DC | Axar Patel |
| GT | Shubman Gill |
| LSG | Rishabh Pant |
| MI | Hardik Pandya |
| SRH | Pat Cummins |
| RR | Sanju Samson |
| PBKS | Shreyas Iyer (TBD) |
| RCB | Rajat Patidar / Shreyas Iyer |
| KKR | Ajinkya Rahane |
Final Thoughts
The IPL 2026 captaincy landscape will become clearer after auctions and the 2025 season. While some teams are settled, others could see major leadership changes. Fans should expect official confirmations closer to the tournament.
Bookmark this page for updates as franchises announce their final captains.
With IPL 2026 expected to be highly competitive, all eyes will be on team combinations and leadership decisions after the IPL 2026 auction. At the same time, fans are closely tracking updates on MS Dhoni IPL 2026, as his decision could have a big impact on CSK’s plans.