Given the high stakes, the
Indian Premier League
(IPL) has specific rules. Perform well, and you achieve lasting fame; perform poorly, and there are consequences. The moment of truth seems to be approaching for the struggling trio of
Axar Patel
,
Ajinkya Rahane
, and
Rishabh Pant
. As captains of Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Lucknow Super Giants respectively, all three are reportedly at risk of losing their leadership roles after disappointing performances in IPL 2026, as per a report from the Press Trust of India. Pant’s LSG has already been eliminated from the tournament, and while DC and KKR are technically still in it, their exit seems imminent.
“Three IPL captains are under scrutiny due to disastrous campaigns, and they may lose their positions once the season concludes. Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, and Rishabh Pant have guided their teams for two successive seasons but failed in their attempts to reach the playoffs,” the PTI report outlined.
Pant’s Difficulties
Pant’s struggles have been evident. None of the three captains have led effectively, and their lack of confidence has affected the entire team. With only 251 runs from 11 matches, Pant seems to be repeating last year’s disappointments. LSG invested heavily in the wicketkeeper-batter, making him the highest-priced player in IPL history in 2024, but the returns have not met expectations. This marks the second consecutive season LSG has failed to qualify for the playoffs.
“It’s an open secret that captaincy hasn’t suited Pant. Though he’s tried different batting orders, he often appears overwhelmed. In a league where immediate success is crucial, failing to qualify for two consecutive seasons will likely have serious repercussions,” the report noted.
Axar’s Decision-Making Challenges
Axar appears to be in the deepest trouble of the three. His captaincy hasn’t matched his Indian performances, and the Capitals have stumbled in crucial games. For instance, they allowed David Miller to chase down two runs off two balls against Gujarat Titans. The inability to secure wins, despite opportunities, has been glaring.
“In 12 matches, Axar has bowled just 36 overs and has taken 10 wickets at an economy of 8.08. Although this rate is reasonable compared to his fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav, he has frequently bowled fewer overs than expected. As ownership shifts to JSW in the next season, Axar’s future as captain remains uncertain,” the report added.
Rahane’s Leadership Issues
Lastly, Rahane’s captaincy has sparked skepticism from the beginning. Appointed as a 37-year-old, he was seen as a last resort for KKR. A viral disagreement between CEO Venky Mysore and owner Shah Rukh Khan raised questions about the team’s direction. Yet, KKR, which won the IPL in 2024 under Shreyas Iyer, never gained traction this season. After a winless start, their hopes for recovery dwindled, leaving them near elimination.
“Rahane’s role at KKR was primarily due to a lack of alternatives. His former teammate Abhishek Nayar served as head coach, but KKR struggled due to Rahane and a young player’s inability to match the demands of modern T20 cricket,” the report concluded.
