Speculation is growing around leadership changes at multiple Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises following disappointing campaigns in the 2026 season, with reports suggesting that several captains, including Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel, could be under scrutiny ahead of the next cycle.Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), led by Rishabh Pant, have endured a particularly difficult season.

After finishing seventh in the previous edition with six wins, the team managed only half that tally this year and became the first franchise to be eliminated from playoff contention. The poor performance has intensified scrutiny on both leadership decisions and team strategy.Pant, who was acquired for a record INR 27 crore at the mega auction before the 2025 season, has struggled to deliver consistent results with the bat in T20 cricket. Over the last two seasons, he has averaged around 25 with a strike rate of 136, figures considered below expectations for a top-order batter in the IPL.

While he did score a century in the 2025 season, it came in a dead rubber match and did not significantly influence the team’s overall campaign. This season, he has managed only one half-century and has frequently been shuffled across different batting positions, affecting his rhythm and consistency.Reports also suggest that Delhi Capitals’ leadership setup could undergo evaluation, with Axar Patel’s captaincy role reportedly under review. Concerns have been raised about tactical decisions and on-field autonomy, with suggestions that decision-making structures within the team may have limited the captain’s control during key phases of matches.

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However, official confirmation from the franchise is yet to be made.According to PTI sources cited in reports, internal discussions are expected across franchises once the season concludes, with performance reviews likely to influence leadership decisions for the next cycle. The emphasis is expected to be on rebuilding strategies, especially for teams that failed to reach the playoffs or exited early in the competition.

At LSG, franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka is reportedly frustrated with the team’s lack of progress over consecutive seasons, adding further pressure on the leadership group. The combination of high investment, inconsistent performances, and early elimination has placed the franchise under the spotlight as it considers possible structural changes.With the IPL season drawing to a close, attention is now shifting toward retention decisions, captaincy evaluations, and auction strategies for the next cycle, where several franchises are expected to reassess their leadership models in an effort to return to competitive form.

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