Hardik Pandya removed as Mumbai Indians captain, but Rishabh Pant retained by Virender Sehwag

IPL 2026: A Season of Leadership Turmoil

The conclusion of the IPL 2026 group stage has left several franchises at a crossroads. With the playoff picture finalized and some of the league’s biggest names failing to live up to expectations, the focus has shifted entirely to the leadership structures of the ten participating teams. In a candid and rapid-fire discussion, legendary former India opener Virender Sehwag offered his unfiltered assessment of the current captaincy landscape, suggesting that sweeping changes are necessary for some, while stability is the key for others.

The Sehwag Verdict: Stability vs. Change

Among the most discussed topics was the future of the Mumbai Indians. The franchise endured another challenging campaign, leading to widespread speculation about their internal structure. Sehwag did not mince words when discussing the five-time champions, explicitly advocating for a change in leadership. His stance was clear: it is time for a fresh approach at the helm of the Mumbai-based outfit.

Conversely, the situation surrounding the Lucknow Super Giants and their leader, Rishabh Pant, presents a different narrative. Despite the team finishing at the bottom of the points table after a lackluster season, Sehwag maintained that the franchise should keep faith in Pant. His assessment—a definitive “50-50 hai but keep”—suggests that he views the current struggles as a developmental phase rather than a fundamental failure of leadership.

Statistical Context: Performance Analysis

Rishabh Pant faced significant scrutiny throughout the 2026 season. Under his stewardship, the Lucknow Super Giants managed only four victories in 14 matches, ultimately securing the tenth position. Individually, Pant contributed 312 runs at an average of 28.36 and a strike rate of 138.05. While these numbers fall short of the elite standards often associated with the star wicket-keeper, Sehwag’s backing highlights a belief that continuity is essential for the long-term health of the squad.

Broadcasting Perspectives on Other Captains

Sehwag’s analysis extended well beyond Mumbai and Lucknow, as he reviewed the captains of all ten teams with varying degrees of support:

• Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins received full backing after leading his side to a top-three finish and a successful playoff qualification.
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar has been encouraged to continue, following a dominant season where the team finished at the top of the table with nine wins.
• Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill is firmly supported to continue in his role after steering the Titans to a second-place finish in the standings.
• Punjab Kings: Despite missing the playoffs, Shreyas Iyer retains Sehwag’s confidence, largely due to the team’s impressive early-season form where they remained unbeaten for seven matches.
• Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad is seen as the future of the franchise, and Sehwag supports his continued leadership despite the team finishing eighth.
• Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel remains a supported figure after leading the Capitals to a sixth-place finish, narrowly missing out on the playoffs with seven wins.

A Surprising Stance on Rajasthan Royals

In perhaps the most surprising part of his analysis, Sehwag suggested that the Rajasthan Royals should consider a change in leadership, despite the team qualifying for the playoffs. Finishing fourth on the points table with 16 points, the Royals had a respectable season by most metrics, yet the former opener believes that a strategic shift in the captaincy role could be the catalyst for further improvement in the coming years.

Looking Ahead

The transition period following the IPL group stages is always a volatile time for teams. With franchises now having the opportunity to reflect on their performances, the suggestions provided by a cricketing mind like Virender Sehwag carry significant weight. Whether these franchises follow his advice or opt for their own internal restructuring remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the leadership landscape in the Indian Premier League is set for a dramatic overhaul in the next season.