As the India Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction approaches, franchises are carefully assessing their squads, strategies, and leadership roles to build a competitive team for the future. With factors like age, fitness, player form, and evolving team goals, several captains might find their roles under scrutiny.

Keeping major auctions in mind, teams are now looking at younger, dynamic leaders who can guide them through a long-term vision while maintaining a high level of performance. Let’s have a look at such franchises that could potentially release their captains before the next IPL season as they rework their leadership structure to align with future goals.

4 teams who can release their captains ahead of the IPL 2025 players’ auction

1. Faf du Plessis – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

Faf du Plessis has been a key figure for RCB since taking over the captaincy, but age and recent form may prompt the team to look for a younger leader. At 40, Du Plessis’ performances have dipped slightly, and with RCB focused on building a squad for the future, the franchise might consider a fresh captain.

Further, RCB could potentially bring in KL Rahul, who started his IPL career with the franchise. Rahul’s leadership experience and batting prowess could make him an ideal replacement for Du Plessis.

2. Shikhar Dhawan – Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Shikhar Dhawan, who has recently retired from all forms of the game, will definitely be released by Punjab Kings ahead of the 2025 season. Dhawan’s retirement paves the way for the franchise to appoint a new captain, and the frontrunner is all-rounder Sam Curran.

Curran, who became the most expensive player in IPL history, is seen as a promising young leader. His all-round abilities and consistent performances make him a strong candidate to lead Punjab Kings into a new era.

Also READ: 3 players Punjab Kings can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

3. KL Rahul – Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Rahul’s tenure as Lucknow Super Giants captain has been marked by mixed results, and reports suggest his relationship with the franchise’s management is strained. With a potential return to RCB on the cards, LSG may release Rahul before the 2025 auction.

Rahul’s previous stint with RCB and his strong leadership credentials could make him an attractive option for his former team, especially if they decide to release Du Plessis.

4. Hardik Pandya – Mumbai Indians (MI)

Hardik Pandya‘s form has been inconsistent in recent seasons, and his injury-prone body has raised concerns among Mumbai Indians fans. Although Hardik remains a valuable all-rounder, the team may consider moving forward without him as captain.

Suryakumar Yadav, currently leading India in T20 internationals, is seen as a strong contender to take over the captaincy. His experience, aggressive style, and current form make him a fan favorite to lead MI in the upcoming seasons.

As the IPL 2025 auction approaches, these potential captaincy changes could shape the direction of several franchises. Fans will be eager to see which teams make bold moves in the pursuit of success.

Also READ: Mumbai Indians – 3 key players MI can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

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