RCB, MI And...! 5 Teams Who Will Likely Release Their Captains Before IPL 2025

Faf du Plessis with Virat Kohli [X]Faf du Plessis with Virat Kohli [X]

Since its inception in 2008, the Indian Premier League has established itself as the most lucrative domestic T20 competition of the world. Most of the cricketing nations have followed the BCCI's footsteps, launching their own T20 league after being fascinated with the IPL's success. 

Meanwhile, the upcoming IPL season has grabbed the attention much before its commencement, with the mega auction set to be conducted before the marquee event. 

As the IPL 2025 has become the talk of the town, let's analyse and find out which IPL teams might release their captain to the mega auction pool. 


Royal Challengers Bengaluru

After Virat Kohli stepped down, Faf du Plessis succeeded him as the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru. 

Although Faf has been a consistent performer with the bat, he has failed to add the maiden trophy to RCB's cabinet. 

Furthermore, considering he is almost 40, RCB won't likely invest a huge amount in him for three more years. So, in all likelihood, Du Plessis could be one of the big names in the auction pool. 


Punjab Kings

Shikhar Dhawan could be released [X]Shikhar Dhawan could be released [X]

Just like RCB, Punjab Kings also have a veteran captain in Shikhar Dhawan, who hasn't been at his best of late. Despite showing consistency, Dhawan was scrutinised for his strike rate in the IPL 2024. 

More importantly, he missed the majority of matches this IPL owing to an injury. So, considering his form and fitness, Dhawan might not be retained for the upcoming IPL season. 


Mumbai Indians

You might be surprised to see Mumbai Indians on this list. But, Hardik Pandya had a  horrible first season as the MI skipper, with the five-time champions finishing last in the standings. 

Also, given India ignored Pandya, announcing Suryakumar Yadav as their captain, MI might follow a similar route to build their team from scratch. 

It's unlikely to happen, but can't be ruled out, as Pandya's tactics and fitness remain serious threats to his captaincy dream. 


Lucknow Super Giants

KL Rahul leads LSG [X]KL Rahul leads LSG [X]

Lucknow Super Giants have definitely shown consistency in the IPL, but the IPL trophy still seems a distant dream for them. 

Barring his shortcomings as a skipper, KL Rahul has often been criticised for his timid batting approach in the shortest format. 

So, considering it will be an investment for at least three years, the Super Giants might tinker with their leadership group, replacing Rahul with a more able alternative. 


Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals could be another side which might bid farewell to their captain, Rishabh Pant, ahead of the IPL 2025. 

According to emerging reports, Pant might join the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings for the tournament. 

Also, his below-par performance as an IPL captain might evoke a reactionary step from the Capitals owners, who passionately support their team in the tournament.