Ruturaj Gaikwad sacked! Aakash Chopra delivers big verdict on IPL captains

The Dawn of a New IPL Cycle and Captaincy Decisions

As the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) prepares to crown its champion on May 31, the cricketing world is already looking ahead to the massive changes awaiting the franchises. With the IPL 2027 mega auction on the horizon, several teams are facing critical decisions regarding their leadership. Amidst these discussions, former Indian cricketer and prominent commentator Aakash Chopra has shared his expert analysis on CREX, evaluating which leaders should be retained and where franchises need to make sweeping changes. In his latest analysis, the talk of Chennai Super Kings potentially looking past their current leader has sparked massive debate: Ruturaj Gaikwad sacked! Aakash Chopra delivers big verdict on IPL captains.

The Grand Finale: RCB vs GT in Ahmedabad

Before the franchises dive deep into their strategies for the IPL 2027 cycle, the current season must find its winner. The IPL 2026 Final is set to be a spectacular clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 31. The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, will go head-to-head against the formidable Gujarat Titans (GT), captained by Shubman Gill. While these two young leaders fight for the ultimate glory, other franchises are already auditing their leadership groups after disappointing campaigns.

Chennai Super Kings: Will Sanju Samson Replace Ruturaj Gaikwad?

Perhaps the most shocking revelation from Aakash Chopra’s assessment involves the five-time IPL champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The Chennai-based franchise has experienced a difficult phase, failing to reach the playoffs since their title-winning run in 2023. Under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team has struggled to find consistency, prompting serious questions about his long-term future as the leader of the squad.

When asked about the situation, Chopra suggested that CSK might need to look outside their current setup for a proven leader. Pointing towards Rajasthan Royals’ skipper, Chopra remarked: “This is a tough one, actually. Sanju Samson is ready. Maybe CSK should move to Sanju.” This bold claim indicates that the franchise might be ready for a massive leadership overhaul, leaving fans wondering if Gaikwad’s stint as captain is drawing to an abrupt end.

Punjab Kings: Why Shreyas Iyer Deserves Full Backing

In contrast to the situation at CSK, Aakash Chopra strongly advocates for patience and stability at Punjab Kings (PBKS). PBKS endured a highly frustrating IPL 2026 campaign, losing momentum rapidly and missing out on the playoffs after suffering six consecutive defeats. Despite this poor run of form, Chopra believes that sacking Shreyas Iyer would be a mistake.

Iyer, who showed incredible form with the bat this season, has an unmatched pedigree when it comes to leading teams to IPL finals. He remains the only captain in IPL history to guide three different franchises to the summit clash, including leading Punjab Kings to the final last year. Emphasizing the need to support the experienced campaigner, Chopra stated simply: “Back him, yaar.”

Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians: Time for a Change

Other major franchises are also tipped to undergo captaincy changes. At Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Ajinkya Rahane is highly likely to be relieved of his duties despite a highly impressive turnaround for the franchise this season. KKR ultimately failed to secure a spot in the IPL playoffs under Rahane’s stewardship, leading Chopra to assert that the franchise “needs a new captain” to unlock its full potential in the next cycle.

Similarly, five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) find themselves at a crossroads. Hardik Pandya‘s tenure has been marred by intense pressure, underwhelming results, and an alleged lack of support from the playing group. Recognizing the unsustainable nature of this environment, Chopra delivered a clear verdict: “MI needs a new captain.”

Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rajasthan Royals

The Delhi Capitals (DC) are also expected to seek a fresh start. Following another disappointing campaign under Axar Patel, Chopra highlighted the need for a leadership shift. Commenting on Delhi’s struggles, he noted: “Continuously bad season. Delhi Capitals can have a new captain instead of Axar.”

On the other hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have found stability. Pat Cummins has successfully transformed SRH into one of the most feared outfits in the league, guiding them to the 2024 final and securing a playoff berth this season. Chopra dismissed any doubts about his future, saying: “Obviously, SRH will keep him.”

Meanwhile, Riyan Parag earned high praise for his debut season as the full-time captain of Rajasthan Royals. Despite navigating mid-season controversies, Parag led RR to the playoffs and into Qualifier 2, leading by example on the field. Backing the youngster to continue, Chopra concluded: “They reached the playoffs and Qualifier 2. You can keep him.”