IPL 2026 season begins with Indian captains across all 10 franchises

For the first time since the IPL expanded into a 10‑team competition, the league begins with all 10 franchises led by Indian captains, at least at the start of the season. 

While Pat Cummins remains the designated skipper for Sunrisers Hyderabad, his late arrival means Ishan Kishan will step in as interim leader, ensuring a uniquely Indian flavour to the captaincy roster when the tournament gets underway on March 28, with the curtain raiser to be played between RCB and SRH at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Rajasthan Royals have handed the reins to Riyan Parag, a bold move that underlines their faith in his maturity and tactical growth. Gujarat Titans continue with Shubman Gill, while Punjab Kings would hope that Shreyas Iyer helps them go one better this season. Rajat Patidar has been entrusted to help RCB defend their title.

Kolkata Knight Riders have opted for Ajinkya Rahane, whose calm presence is expected to balance their unit. Chennai Super Kings remain in the hands of Ruturaj Gaikwad, the heir to MS Dhoni’s legacy. Hardik Pandya will lead Mumbai Indians' search for their sixth title. Rishabh Pant, back from injury setbacks, captains Lucknow Super Giants, while Delhi Capitals have backed Axar Patel to marshal their resources.

This collective Indian leadership reflects both the depth of domestic talent and the evolving trust that franchises place in homegrown cricketers. As the season unfolds, the spotlight will be on how these captains shape their sides, and whether this all‑Indian start signals a lasting shift in IPL’s leadership landscape.

Pat Cummins opens up on IPL return

During his appearance on the Business of Sport podcast, SRH's designated captain Pat Cummins said that he expects to join the IPL mid-season and has started sweating it out in the nets.

"I'm still recovering from a back injury, but it's good. I'm back bowling in the nets," Cummins said, in an episode of the Business of Sport podcast, recorded last week. "The IPL is starting soon. I won't make the start of that, but it shouldn't be too long before I'm back out there playing.

"I'm back bowling. I'm bowling basically every third day at the moment. We've mapped out a plan to get me right by [the] middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, [I'll] play the back half plus the finals."