The IPL 2026 season brings fresh excitement for cricket fans. The mini auction has changed squad compositions. Some franchises also made changes to their captaincy this year.
Captains guide their teams through tough situations. They set the game plan and motivate players. This article covers all 10 IPL 2026 captains, their leadership styles, and what they bring to their teams.
IPL 2026 Captains List: All 10 Teams
Here is the 10 Captains’ information:
| Team | Captain | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | Ruturaj Gaikwad | Batsman |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | Axar Patel | All-rounder |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | Shubman Gill | Batsman |
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | Ajinkya Rahane | Batsman |
| Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | Rishabh Pant | Wicketkeeper-Batsman |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | Hardik Pandya | All-rounder |
| Punjab Kings (PBKS) | Shreyas Iyer | Batsman |
| Rajasthan Royals (RR) | Riyan Parag | All-rounder |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) | Rajat Patidar | Batsman |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | Pat Cummins | Fast Bowler |
1. Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad leads CSK for the third straight season. He gained valuable experience in the last two years. His calm nature helps the team stay focused under pressure.
Gaikwad scores runs at the top of the order. He also reads the game well and makes smart decisions. CSK trusts him to carry forward their winning culture.
2. Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel
Axar Patel continues as DC captain. He brings tactical skills and steady guidance to the team. Last season, he helped blend young players with experienced ones.
Axar contributes with both bat and ball. He motivates teammates and makes key calls in close games. DC relies on his all-round abilities and leadership.
3. Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill stays as GT captain. He took over after Hardik Pandya left the franchise. His composure in tough situations gives the team a solid base.
Gill bats with patience and class at the top. He also focuses on developing young players in the squad. His field placements and game plans keep GT competitive.
4. Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane leads KKR after last season’s leadership changes. His calm approach keeps the team organized. He brings years of experience to the role.
Rahane mentors younger players in the squad. He uses smart tactics and adapts quickly to match situations. KKR benefits from his steady presence.
5. Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant continues as LSG captain. He plays with an aggressive and fearless style. His dynamic batting lifts the team in crunch moments.
Pant makes sharp decisions under pressure. He inspires confidence among young players. His energy brings life to the LSG dugout.
6. Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya remains MI captain. He uses his all-round skills to balance the team. His energetic approach boosts team morale.
Pandya makes bold calls during matches. He changes bowlers at key times and shuffles the batting order when needed. These moves often swing close games in MI’s favor.
7. Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer leads PBKS with calmness and strategy. He scored consistently last season. His previous captaincy experience makes him a reliable leader.
Under Iyer, PBKS reached the runner-up spot in IPL 2025. He helps new players settle into the team. His focus on unity makes the squad stronger.
8. Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag
Riyan Parag takes over as the official captain for IPL 2026, succeeding Sanju Samson.
Although Ravindra Jadeja joined RR through a high-profile trade deal from CSK, the management decided to back Parag for the top job following a structured review process led by head coach Kumar Sangakkara.
9. Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar stays as RCB captain. He led the team to their first IPL title last season. His calm nature provides stability in big moments.
Patidar supports young players and builds team spirit. He makes strategic choices at crucial times. RCB looks to defend its title under his leadership.
10. Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins continues as SRH captain. He brings international leadership experience from captaining Australia. His insights guide the bowling attack.
Cummins stays calm on the field even in tense situations. He helps SRH execute their plans against top teams. His presence strengthens the squad.
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Final Thoughts
IPL 2026 features a mix of experienced and new captains. Some leaders like Gaikwad, Gill, and Pant continue with their teams. Others, like Jadeja, get a fresh start at a new franchise.
Each captain will face unique challenges this season. Updated squads and new talent will test their leadership skills. Fans can expect exciting matches as these 10 leaders guide their teams toward the trophy.
