Three IPL Teams That Could Axe Their Captains In 2026

The race for IPL 2025 playoffs has turned into a thrilling battle, with seven teams still in contention. However, the journey has already ended for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Rajasthan Royals (RR).

While some teams are fighting hard for a top-four finish, others have left their fans and franchise owners disappointed - especially due to poor leadership on the field.

Let's take a look at three captains whose underwhelming performances this season could cost them their jobs in IPL 2026:

1. Sanju Samson – Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals have had a disastrous season, winning only 3 out of 12 games and sitting at 9th place with just 6 points. Injuries plagued the side, including their captain Sanju Samson, who featured in only 7 matches and led in just 4 of them. Riyan Parag took over the captaincy in Samson's absence, but the team's campaign never took off.

Given the poor results and Samson's injury concerns, the franchise is likely to rethink its leadership strategy ahead of the next season. A fresh start may be on the cards.

2. Rishabh Pant – Lucknow Super Giants

Rishabh Pant's return as captain hasn't gone as planned for Lucknow Super Giants. After a promising start, LSG's form collapsed mid-season. With only 5 wins in 11 matches, they're currently 7th on the table, and their chances of making the playoffs are slim - especially with MI, GT, RCB, and PBKS emerging as stronger contenders.

Pant's own form has been a major concern. In 11 matches, he has managed just 128 runs, averaging a dismal 12.80 with a strike rate of 99.22. With just one fifty this season, questions are being raised not just about his captaincy, but also his place in the XI.

3. Ajinkya Rahane – Kolkata Knight Riders

Ajinkya Rahane's stint as KKR captain hasn't yielded the desired results. With 5 wins, 5 losses, and 1 no-result in 11 games, KKR sit at 6th place with 11 points. Their playoff chances are still technically alive, but the inconsistency has hurt them badly.

Rahane's individual performance has also been underwhelming, offering little with the bat in key moments. With both form and leadership under scrutiny, Rahane may not be retained as captain for IPL 2026.

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