The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season is set to commence, and all ten franchises have finalized their captains. This year’s leadership roster showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, each bringing unique strengths to their respective teams.
Here’s an in-depth look at the captains steering their franchises in IPL 2025.
Captains of All 10 Teams in IPL 2025
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to lead CSK into the 2025 season. After taking over the captaincy from MS Dhoni in 2024, Gaikwad faced challenges in his debut leadership year.
Despite a less-than-stellar season, the franchise has shown faith in his leadership, hoping for a resurgence under his guidance. Gaikwad’s calm demeanor and consistent batting performances make him a pivotal figure for the Super Kings.
2. Delhi Capitals (DC) – Axar Patel
Axar Patel has been appointed as the new captain of Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025, succeeding Rishabh Pant. Patel, who joined the team in 2019, has been a vital member of the franchise, contributing significantly with both bat and ball.
His leadership experience includes captaining Gujarat in domestic cricket and serving as India’s T20I vice-captain. Patel expressed his gratitude to the team management for their trust and confidence in his leadership abilities.
3. Gujarat Titans (GT) – Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill retains his role as captain of the Gujarat Titans. After taking over the leadership mantle in 2024, Gill aims to improve upon the previous season’s performance, where the Titans finished eighth.
Known for his elegant stroke play and composure, Gill’s leadership will be crucial in steering the Titans back to their winning ways.
4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Ajinkya Rahane
In a strategic move, KKR has appointed veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane as their captain for IPL 2025. Rahane, 36, replaces Shreyas Iyer, who has joined the Punjab Kings.
With a wealth of experience, including leading India to a test series victory in Australia in 2020-21, Rahane brings leadership and stability to the defending champions.
5. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant takes over as captain of the Lucknow Super Giants after a record-breaking INR 27 crore signing.
Pant’s aggressive batting style and fearless approach make him an exciting leader. His leadership will be pivotal in guiding LSG as they aim for their maiden IPL title.
6. Mumbai Indians (MI) – Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya continues to lead the Mumbai Indians despite a challenging 2024 season where MI finished last.
Known for his dynamic all-round abilities and aggressive leadership style, Pandya will be eager to turn the team’s fortunes around and add another title to Mumbai’s illustrious history.
7. Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings for IPL 2025. Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to their IPL title victory in 2024, was signed by PBKS for a record-breaking Rs 26.75 crore during the November mega auction, making him the second-most expensive player in IPL history.
His appointment marks a reunion with Punjab Kings’ head coach Ricky Ponting, under whose guidance he previously led Delhi Capitals to the IPL 2020 final.
9. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar has been appointed as the new captain of RCB for IPL 2025, succeeding Faf du Plessis. Patidar’s leadership qualities and domestic success, including leading Madhya Pradesh to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, have earned him this role.
RCB’s head coach, Andy Flower, praised Patidar’s calm demeanor and inherent leadership qualities, expressing confidence in his ability to navigate the challenges of leading a major IPL franchise.
10. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins continues as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2025. After leading SRH to the IPL 2024 final in his debut season as captain, Cummins remains at the helm for the upcoming edition. Hyderabad aims for a trophy lift after nine years under his leadership.
As IPL 2025 approaches, the blend of experienced leaders and fresh faces promises an exciting season ahead. Each captain’s unique approach and strategy will undoubtedly influence their team’s performance, making this season one to watch.
Read More: IPL 2025: Axar Patel Takes Charge As New Delhi Capitals Captain
