IPL 2026 Captains List: Confirmed & Expected Skippers for All Teams

The Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) is fast approaching, and captaincy has once again become a major point of discussion among fans and analysts. Leadership plays a decisive role in the IPL, where split-second decisions, player management, and tactical clarity often decide the outcome of close matches. While a few franchises have officially confirmed their captains for the upcoming season, others are expected to continue with their current leaders to maintain stability.

Below is a team-wise look at the confirmed and expected captains for IPL 2026 Teams, based on official announcements and strong indications from team managements.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings are set to continue with Ruturaj Gaikwad as their captain for IPL 2026. The franchise has shown strong faith in Gaikwad’s calm leadership style and consistency at the top of the order. CSK’s focus on continuity reflects their long-term planning and trust in a captain who understands the team’s culture deeply.

Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians are expected to retain Hardik Pandya as their captain for the 2026 season. Despite facing scrutiny in the previous edition, the management is likely to back Pandya’s aggressive mindset and all-round capabilities, hoping for a stronger campaign with a settled leadership group.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have confirmed Rajat Patidar as their captain for IPL 2026. This move signals a fresh leadership approach for the franchise, with an emphasis on building a younger core and reducing long-standing dependence on senior international stars for captaincy duties.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Kolkata Knight Riders are expected to continue with Ajinkya Rahane as captain. Known for his experience and composure, Rahane provides stability to a squad that blends youth with seasoned international players. His leadership is seen as crucial for maintaining balance during pressure situations.

Delhi Capitals (DC)

Delhi Capitals are likely to persist with Axar Patel as their captain in IPL 2026. Axar’s growth as an all-rounder and leader has impressed the franchise, and continuity at the top is expected to help Delhi Capitals build a more consistent on-field identity.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

Sunrisers Hyderabad have confirmed Pat Cummins as their captain for the upcoming season. Cummins brings proven international leadership experience and tactical clarity, which SRH hope will translate into better performances and stronger decision-making in crunch moments.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Lucknow Super Giants are expected to continue with Rishabh Pant as captain. Pant’s fearless approach and ability to change games single-handedly make him a natural leader, and the franchise is keen to back him as the face of their long-term plans.

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Punjab Kings are likely to move forward with Shreyas Iyer as captain for IPL 2026. After years of frequent leadership changes, Punjab Kings appear focused on stability, with Iyer seen as someone who can provide structure and direction to the squad.

Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Rajasthan Royals are expected to retain Sanju Samson as their captain. Samson continues to be a central figure for the franchise, and despite periodic speculation, the Royals are likely to stick with a leader who has guided them through multiple competitive seasons.

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat Titans are set to continue with Shubman Gill as captain in IPL 2026. The franchise has shown confidence in Gill’s leadership growth, backing him to lead a well-balanced side built around young Indian talent and smart overseas selections.

The IPL 2026 captains list highlights a clear preference for continuity and long-term leadership planning across franchises. With most teams choosing to back their existing captains, the upcoming season is expected to showcase refined strategies, stronger team identities, and intense tactical battles driven by experienced leaders.

As the tournament draws closer, official confirmations may still bring a few surprises but for now, IPL 2026 appears set for a season led by stability, experience, and emerging leadership talent.