The IPL 2026 mini-auction is likely to take place between December 13 and 15. This time, the event is expected to be held in India after two consecutive overseas editions in Dubai and Jeddah. With the player retention deadline set for November 15, teams are finalizing their release lists, and a few franchises could undergo significant changes.
While some teams are expected to retain their captains, others may explore leadership changes to revive their fortunes. Teams that struggled last season could
see major transitions, especially with speculations of possible player transfers. Franchises like the Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals are also strengthening their leadership core after underwhelming seasons.
Here are 3 teams that might appoint new captains after IPL 2026 Auction
3. Delhi Capitals
After appointing AxarPatel as full-time captain in 2025, Delhi Capitals looked good initially but eventually fell short of playoff qualification, finishing fifth with seven wins in 14 games. While Axar was seen as a capable leader, his maiden season as skipper didn’t produce consistent results, which might lead the management to rethink their approach.
Axar is expected to continue as a player, but DC is likely to bring in a new captain to lead the team in the upcoming season. The franchise has several potential candidates, including KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and possibly Sanju Samson, if they acquire him at the auction. Rahul’s and Du Plessis' past leadership experience make them strong contenders. Delhi Capitals could use the mini-auction to secure a strong leader and address key weaknesses.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders
After a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, the Kolkata Knight Riders are reportedly eyeing a major overhaul ahead of the 2026 season. The two-time champions, who lifted the trophy in 2024 under Shreyas Iyer, endured a poor run under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy, finishing eighth on the points table with just five wins. KKR’s decision to release their title-winning skipper, Shreyas, after the 2024 edition backfired, as the team struggled. While Rahane led the team decently, many of his decisions came under question. Despite scoring 390 runs himself, Rahane’s leadership raised questions about his position as a leader.
Venkatesh Iyer, bought for a whopping INR 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, was seen as a potential long-term leader, and was also appointed as the vice-captain ahead of the 18th season of the cash-rich tournament. However, his underwhelming returns with the bat have also raised concerns. Reports suggest that the three-time champions might release him to free up funds for the 2026 mini-auction and scout a stronger leader.
1. Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals are set for a major leadership change ahead of the new season, with long-time skipper Sanju Samson’s trade reportedly nearing completion. Following a significant overhaul in the coaching setup, the inaugural IPL champions are searching for a leader.
In Samson’s absence last season, Riyan Parag briefly led the team, though with limited success, winning only two of eight matches. However, the franchise has continued to back him, keeping his name in the leadership mix. Alongside Parag, talents Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal are being considered as potential captains. As the Royals also contemplate shifting their home base from Jaipur to Guwahati amid disputes with the Rajasthan Cricket Association, the 2026 season could see a complete change.
