The IPL 2026 mini-auction is scheduled between December 13 and 15, with the event expected to be held in India after consecutive editions in Dubai and Jeddah. Teams have until November 15 to finalize their retention lists. While some franchises are expected to retain their current captains, others are considering leadership changes following disappointing performances in the previous season. Several teams that missed playoff qualification or finished near the bottom of the points table are exploring options to rebuild their leadership core. Franchises like Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Rajasthan Royals could see significant changes in their captaincy structure. With speculations of player transfers and major overhauls, the upcoming mini-auction could witness teams acquiring experienced leaders to strengthen their squads and address key weaknesses that hampered their performances in recent seasons.
Three Franchises Likely to Change Leadership
Delhi Capitals appointed Axar Patel as full-time captain in 2025, but despite a promising start, the team finished fifth with seven wins in 14 matches and missed playoff qualification. The franchise is reportedly considering bringing in a new leader, with KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and possibly Sanju Samson as potential candidates. Kolkata Knight Riders struggled in 2025 under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy, finishing eighth with just five wins after releasing their 2024 title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer. Rajasthan Royals are set for a major change with Samson's trade reportedly nearing completion. The franchise is considering Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Yashasvi Jaiswal as potential captains for the upcoming season.
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