IPL 2026: First Time All 10 Teams Led by Indian Captains

Ahead of the season opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad, all ten team captains assembled in Mumbai for the official pre-season meeting, creating a landmark moment in IPL history.

For the first time since the league’s inception, every franchise will be led by an Indian captain. The photoshoot, featuring each skipper in their team colours, symbolised both unity and the intense competition that defines the IPL.

This generational shift reflects the league’s growing depth of Indian leadership, with a mix of young stars and seasoned campaigners stepping into pivotal roles.

Let’s meet the leadership line-up

Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to lead Chennai Super Kings, carrying forward the legacy of MS Dhoni. After a near-miss in 2024 and an injury-hit 2025 season, he will look to restore CSK’s dominance.

Axar Patel remains at the helm of Delhi Capitals after a narrowly missed playoff berth last season, while Shubman Gill continues to guide Gujarat Titans, still chasing his first IPL title as captain despite consistent individual brilliance.

Ajinkya Rahane, one of the IPL’s longest-serving players, will aim for a turnaround with Kolkata Knight Riders after a difficult 2025 campaign.

Hardik Pandya, meanwhile, enters IPL 2026 with renewed confidence, having led Mumbai Indians to Qualifier 2 last season after a disappointing start to his captaincy tenure.

Riyan Parag steps into a full-time leadership role at Rajasthan Royals following a transition in the squad, while Rajat Patidar returns as RCB captain after scripting a historic maiden title win in 2025.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will begin the season under Ishan Kishan, who takes over in the absence of Pat Cummins and arrives on the back of a stellar international comeback, including a key role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph.

Shreyas Iyer continues with Punjab Kings, bringing with him the rare distinction of having led three different teams to an IPL final, while also reuniting with coach Ricky Ponting.

At Lucknow Super Giants, Rishabh Pant will once again shoulder leadership responsibilities, aiming to turn around the team’s fortunes after a challenging 2025 season.

As IPL 2026 unfolds, the spotlight will not just be on performances, but on how this all-Indian leadership group shapes the narrative of the tournament: blending ambition, redemption, and legacy.