The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to be an exciting season with several teams making key changes to their leadership. Some franchises have retained their captains, while others have introduced new faces to lead their squads. Let’s take a deep dive into the captains of all 10 teams, their past performances, and what they bring to the table.
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad continues as the captain of CSK for the second consecutive season after taking over from MS Dhoni in 2024. Despite a rough start in his debut leadership year, CSK has shown faith in the young opener. Known for his composed batting, Gaikwad will aim to lead CSK to another title while refining his captaincy skills.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 521 runs in 14 matches, average 43.42, strike rate 135.8
- Strengths: Solid technique, calm under pressure
- Challenges: Captaincy experience and tactical adaptability
2. Mumbai Indians (MI) – Hardik Pandya
After a disappointing 2024 season where MI finished last, Hardik Pandya retains the captaincy. His aggressive style and all-round abilities make him a dynamic leader, but he will need to improve his decision-making and inspire his team to reclaim past glory.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 312 runs, 11 wickets
- Strengths: Explosive batting, impact player, experience as an India T20 captain
- Challenges: Managing pressure, handling senior players
3. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Ajinkya Rahane
KKR made a surprising choice by naming Ajinkya Rahane as their captain. With Venkatesh Iyer as his deputy, Rahane’s experience and calm demeanor could be crucial for KKR’s title defense.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 267 runs, average 29.67
- Strengths: Tactical awareness, experience
- Challenges: Adapting to aggressive T20 cricket
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins, who led SRH to the IPL 2024 final, remains their captain. The Australian pacer’s leadership was instrumental in SRH’s resurgence, and he will be keen to bring the trophy home.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 18 wickets, economy 7.9
- Strengths: Tactical captaincy, leading by example
- Challenges: Managing workload as a pacer and captain
5. Delhi Capitals (DC) – Axar Patel
Axar Patel takes over the captaincy of Delhi Capitals after Rishabh Pant’s release. Having been a consistent performer for DC, Axar’s leadership skills will be tested in his first full season as skipper.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 235 runs, 11 wickets
- Strengths: All-round ability, level-headed approach
- Challenges: Limited captaincy experience
6. Gujarat Titans (GT) – Shubman Gill
After a below-par season in 2024 where GT finished eighth, Shubman Gill continues as captain. The stylish batter will look to turn things around and lead his team back to the top.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 483 runs, strike rate 136.9
- Strengths: Young leader, consistent performer
- Challenges: Tactical decision-making under pressure
7. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Rajat Patidar
RCB made a bold decision by naming Rajat Patidar as captain, overlooking veterans like Virat Kohli. Patidar’s domestic leadership experience and solid batting could prove valuable.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 422 runs, average 38.36
- Strengths: Middle-order stability, calm mindset
- Challenges: Filling the shoes of Faf du Plessis
8. Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Shreyas Iyer
PBKS splurged ₹26.75 crore on Shreyas Iyer, making him their captain. Fresh from leading KKR to an IPL title in 2024, Iyer’s leadership and batting prowess will be crucial.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 478 runs, strike rate 132.4
- Strengths: Proven leader, tactically sharp
- Challenges: Adapting to a new team
9. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant’s record-breaking ₹27 crore signing saw him named LSG captain. His explosive batting and experience as DC’s captain make him a strong choice.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 410 runs, strike rate 145.2
- Strengths: Game-changer, fearless leader
- Challenges: Recovering from injuries, maintaining consistency
10. Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson remains Rajasthan’s captain, having led the team since 2021. He will aim to guide RR to their second IPL title.
- IPL 2024 Stats: 452 runs, average 36.5
- Strengths: Aggressive batting, experience
- Challenges: Handling pressure in knockout matches
Final Thoughts
The IPL 2025 season promises an intriguing mix of experienced captains and fresh faces. While players like Pat Cummins, Shreyas Iyer, and Hardik Pandya bring stability, emerging leaders like Rajat Patidar, Axar Patel, and Ruturaj Gaikwad will be closely watched. With teams making strategic captaincy decisions, the battle for the IPL trophy will be fiercely contested.
Who do you think will lead their team to victory in IPL 2025? Let’s discuss!