As the IPL 2026 starts on March 28, we will see some familiar faces at the forefront. These players are all set to lead their teams.
While most of these players have had previous captaincy experience, a couple of them are just starting out.
So, who are all the captains in the IPL 2026? Here’s a look at each of them.
Chennai Super Kings
Captain: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad returns to lead CSK once again. Last year, he missed half the season after suffering an elbow fracture.
MS Dhoni had to take over the reins in Gaikwad’s absence, though things didn’t quite materialise well for them. As a result, CSK finished last on the points table. So, Gaikwad has a big task cut out for himself this season.
Delhi Capitals
Captain: Axar Patel
The Capitals have persisted with Axar Patel for another season. Patel took over the captaincy duties last season, replacing Rishabh Pant.
Under the all-rounder’s leadership, DC delivered a mixed season in 2025. They started well but lost the momentum later to miss out on the playoffs.
This time, Patel would hope to deliver a consistent campaign and end it with DC’s first IPL trophy.
Gujarat Titans
Captain: Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill continues to captain Gujarat Titans for another season. This is his third season as the franchise’s captain.
Last year, the Indian skipper led the Titans into the playoffs, although he failed to guide them through the Eliminator.
Kolkata Knight Riders
Captain: Ajinkya Rahane
Kolkata Knight Riders have retained Ajinkya Rahane for another season despite a below-par performance in 2025.
Although Rahane has extensive captaincy experience, things didn’t work out well last year. The Knight Riders managed just five wins and finished in eighth spot on the points table.
With some strong signings made, KKR would expect a better outing this time from Rahane.
Lucknow Super Giants
Captain: Rishabh Pant
Lucknow Super Giants have shown their faith in Rishabh Pant once again. The keeper-batter will lead the franchise for the second time.
Last year, Pant experienced an average season, both as a captain and a player. The heavy price tag, perhaps, played a part.
But now he must be eager to make up for the poor show with a banger of a season.
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Mumbai Indians
Captain: Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya proved his haters wrong last season. The all-rounder staged a comeback, taking MI into the playoffs.
Now, as Pandya enters the third season as MI’s skipper, he would like to finish with a title victory. He previously tasted success as Gujarat Titans captain in 2022.
Punjab Kings
Captain: Shreyas Iyer
After an impressive run in 2025, Shreyas Iyer will continue to lead PBKS in IPL 2026.
Iyer led Punjab to their first IPL final since 2014. Although they fell short, it highlighted Iyer’s leadership role behind their run to the final.
As this season kicks off, Punjab’s management would hope Iyer continues to good work and delivers their maiden IPL title.
Rajasthan Royals
Captain: Riyan Parag
Rajasthan Royals have a leadership change. They have handed the captaincy reins to Riyan Parag.
While Parag led them in a few games last season, this time, he is taking over in a full-time capacity. The young all-rounder replaces Sanju Samson.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Captain: Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar did what many of his predecessors failed to do. He guided RCB to their first-ever IPL title.
Now the challenge for him will be to retain the crown in IPL 2026. With a strong squad at his disposal, fans can expect him to defend well.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Captains: Ishan Kishan & Pat Cummins
Sunrisers Hyderabad will be without their regular skipper, Pat Cummins. The Australian pacer won’t be available for the earlier part of the tournament.
So, in his absence, Ishan Kishan will lead the Sunrisers. Kishan hasn’t captained in the IPL, though he comes on the back of leading Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy victory in December 2025.
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