New Delhi, May 25: The league stage of IPL 2026 has concluded, revealing disappointing performances from several major teams, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Amidst this backdrop, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has identified four teams that may change their captains for the upcoming season.
In a video shared on his social media account ‘X’, Aakash mentioned that Mumbai Indians (MI) could be looking for a new captain. He noted that under Hardik Pandya’s leadership, MI has failed to reach the playoffs in two out of the last three seasons. While Hardik may remain with the team, Aakash suggested that MI might enter the next season with a new captain.
Similarly, Aakash pointed out that Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) might also consider replacing Rishabh Pant as captain. He highlighted that the team has struggled to secure a playoff spot for two consecutive seasons under Pant’s leadership. The pressure of captaincy has evidently impacted Pant’s batting performance as well.
Aakash also indicated that three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) might hand over the captaincy to a new player in place of Ajinkya Rahane. Under Rahane’s captaincy, KKR managed to win only 6 out of 14 matches this season, failing to qualify for the playoffs.
Lastly, Aakash Chopra mentioned that Chennai Super Kings (CSK), which has also struggled this season, might consider appointing Sanju Samson as captain instead of Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK has not qualified for the playoffs this season, winning only 6 out of 14 matches. Aakash believes that Sanju Samson possesses the necessary captaincy experience and could prove to be a more effective leader.
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