Former India opener Aakash Chopra has suggested that four IPL franchises could look for new leaders once the 2026 season is over. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he went through the captains he feels are most exposed after disappointing campaigns.
Hardik Pandya, Mumbai Indians
Chopra put Hardik Pandya first on his list. He said he was unsure whether Mumbai would even retain the all-rounder, but felt they might not keep him as captain after three years in the job.
His reasoning was based on results. Mumbai ended near the bottom of the table in two of the last three seasons, and the one year in which they qualified did not end with a title. Chopra expects the franchise to pivot towards another captain.
Rishabh Pant, Lucknow Super Giants
Rishabh Pant was the second name. Lucknow have missed the playoffs for three years in a row, and Chopra said this season had again gone badly. In his view, Pant’s time as captain is effectively finished.
Ajinkya Rahane, Kolkata Knight Riders
Third on the list was Ajinkya Rahane. Kolkata have backed him for two years, but after two underwhelming finishes Chopra thinks they will change direction and appoint a new captain.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai Super Kings
The last pick was the one Chopra called slightly shocking. After a difficult season for Chennai, he believes the team could move away from Ruturaj Gaikwad, with Sanju Samson emerging as a possible replacement.
These are Chopra’s personal assessments rather than announcements from the franchises, and none of the four teams has confirmed any change.
