Virat Kohli was the long-time captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore, but in 2022, he handed over the leadership to Faf du Plessis. With du Plessis not around this season, there were rumors about Kohli’s return as captain. However, the team has placed its trust in Rajat Patidar. If Patidar is unavailable for any match, Kohli will step in for the toss.
With only a short time left before the IPL begins, all teams have started their final preparations. They have also almost finalized their captaincy plans for the new season.
However, every franchise has at least one or more alternative captains who can take on the leadership role if needed. Today, we take a look at them.
Royal Challengers Bangalore – Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli led RCB for a long time before stepping down in 2022. This year, there were talks about his return as captain in Faf du Plessis’ absence, but the team has shown faith in Rajat Patidar. However, if Patidar is unavailable for any match, Kohli will take charge for the toss.
Mumbai Indians – Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma
Suryakumar Yadav is India’s T20 captain, while Rohit Sharma leads the other two formats. However, both will play under Hardik Pandya’s captaincy in the IPL. This decision was made to keep their star batters stress-free. But if Hardik is unavailable, Suryakumar will take over the responsibility.
Chennai Super Kings – MS Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings have been very conservative about their captaincy decisions, appointing only four captains in the last 18 years. Among them, MS Dhoni stands out as the undisputed leader. That’s why the franchise is grooming Ruturaj Gaikwad as their future captain while Dhoni is still around. However, if Gaikwad is unavailable, Dhoni will have to step in once again.
Gujarat Titans – Rashid Khan
From 2022 to 2024, Rashid Khan served as Gujarat Titans’ vice-captain and even led the team in the regular captain’s absence. Given his experience and leadership qualities, he is expected to continue as Shubman Gill’s deputy.
Kolkata Knight Riders – Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer was one of the top names discussed for the captaincy role. However, KKR ultimately placed their trust in Ajinkya Rahane. Nevertheless, Iyer will serve as the vice-captain and could lead the team if needed.
Delhi Capitals – Faf du Plessis
Faf du Plessis has extensive leadership experience in both international cricket and the IPL. However, Delhi Capitals have chosen Axar Patel as their captain, with du Plessis officially named as his deputy.
Lucknow Super Giants – Nicholas Pooran
Nicholas Pooran has led his national team on big occasions and even captained Lucknow Super Giants in KL Rahul’s absence. However, the franchise has now chosen Rishabh Pant as their regular captain, with Pooran expected to serve as vice-captain.
Punjab Kings – Glenn Maxwell
After signing Shreyas Iyer for a record fee, Punjab Kings are set to hand him the captaincy. However, if Iyer is unavailable, Glenn Maxwell is the leading candidate to step in, given that he has previously captained the franchise.
Rajasthan Royals – Nitish Rana
Rajasthan Royals have once again trusted Sanju Samson as their captain, as expected. However, with Jos Buttler absent, they faced a bit of uncertainty regarding the vice-captaincy. Nitish Rana seems to be the likely solution to that problem.
Sunrisers Hyderabad – Heinrich Klaasen
Sunrisers Hyderabad is the only franchise to appoint an overseas player as their captain. Pat Cummins came close to winning the title last season and will be eager to go all the way this time. Heinrich Klaasen will support him, providing tactical inputs from behind the stumps and stepping in as captain if needed.
These are the key alternative captains across all IPL teams this season.
