As the excitement builds for the IPL 2025 season, with the recent mega auction held in Jeddah, cricket enthusiasts are eager to see how the new leadership dynamics will unfold across franchises. Many teams have officially confirmed their captains, while others are weighing their options. Here’s a closer look at the probable captains for each IPL team after the auction.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB): Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli is set to reclaim the captaincy of RCB, a role he held for nearly a decade before stepping down in 2021. With Faf du Plessis not being retained, RCB’s choice to avoid acquiring any cricketer with captaincy experience at the auction indicates that Kohli’s return is more than speculation.
His connection with the team and the fan base makes this an emotional and tactical choice. Kohli’s leadership style and experience are expected to rejuvenate RCB’s quest for their first IPL title, bringing a mix of passion and commitment to the franchise.
Mumbai Indians (MI): Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya will continue to lead the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, having been retained for Rs 16.35 crore after a challenging 2024 season. Despite finishing last in the points table, MI management trusts Hardik’s leadership qualities and his pivotal role in India’s recent cricket successes, including the T20 World Cup.
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The franchise’s faith in Hardik is seen as crucial for revamping their strategy and performance as they aim for a strong return in the league.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK): Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain CSK for IPL 2025, having taken over from MS Dhoni before the previous season. Gaikwad’s commitment to building a future-ready team while respecting CSK’s rich heritage is commendable. With Dhoni retained in the squad, Gaikwad can lean on the legendary cricketer for guidance while also showcasing his leadership skills developed during his time playing for India. His consistency and vision for the franchise make him a promising leader.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins has been officially announced as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2025 after leading the team to the finals in 2024, despite a loss. His retention, coupled with the support of key players like Heinrich Klaasen and Abhishek Sharma, underscores SRH’s confidence in Cummins to guide the team to further success. His strategic mindset and on-field performances are set to be integral to SRH’s campaign.
Gujarat Titans (GT): Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill will continue his captaincy role with Gujarat Titans, where he aimed to improve after a tough inaugural season. GT is focused on retaining key players like Rashid Khan to support Gill as he seeks to strengthen the team’s lineup. The franchise is counting on Gill’s insights and batting prowess to lead them toward a brighter future in IPL 2025.
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Delhi Capitals (DC): KL Rahul
KL Rahul, acquired for Rs 14 crore, is anticipated to take over as the captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. His record of over 4,600 runs and four centuries in the IPL speaks volumes about his capabilities. While there have been discussions about Axar Patel potentially sharing leadership duties, Rahul’s experience and skills as a top-order batsman position him as an asset for the franchise.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant has made history by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history, sold for a staggering Rs 27 crore to LSG. His appointment as captain is anticipated to provide stability to a team that previously relied on KL Rahul for leadership. Pant’s dynamic style and experience are expected to catalyze LSG’s ascent in the league.
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Shreyas Iyer
Following a lavish purchase of Rs 26.75 crore, Shreyas Iyer is poised to lead the Punjab Kings. His previous success with Kolkata Knight Riders makes him an ideal candidate to fill the leadership void left by KL Rahul’s exit. Iyer’s tactical acumen and leadership experience are crucial as PBKS aims for a successful season.
Rajasthan Royals (RR): Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson will remain at the helm for Rajasthan Royals as captain. His leadership has been pivotal in RR’s tactical gameplay, especially as they reached the playoffs in IPL 2024. With a sharp focus on strategy, Samson is expected to build on his role to ensure that RR continues to compete at a high level.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Ajinkya Rahane
While KKR is yet to finalize their captain, Ajinkya Rahane emerges as a strong contender. With extensive experience and a calm demeanor, Rahane could effectively lead KKR from where Shreyas Iyer left off. His proven record and approach could help stabilize the franchise as it seeks to reclaim its status in the league.