As IPL 2026 approaches its business end, discussions around captaincy performances have become one of the biggest talking points among fans and experts. With several teams battling for playoff spots and others already enduring disappointing campaigns, leadership decisions have played a defining role throughout the season. Amid the growing debate, former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu shared his rankings for the best captains of IPL 2026. While some expected names featured near the top, the final order sparked major reactions online.
India captain beats Rajat Patidar and Pat Cummins
According to Rayudu, Shubman Gill has been the standout captain of IPL 2026 so far. The skipper earned the top spot largely because of his impressive handling of the bowling attack and the consistency the Gujarat Titans (GT) have shown throughout the campaign. Gill’s tactical bowling changes and calm leadership have helped Gujarat emerge as one of the strongest sides this season.
Rayudu particularly highlighted the Titans’ bowling performances, which have often rescued the team in pressure situations.
Rajat Patidar was placed second after guiding the team to the top of the points table for most of the season. Patidar has impressed with both his leadership and batting contributions, helping the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) maintain consistency despite a few difficult phases. Third place went to Pat Cummins, who managed to keep Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) among the playoff contenders despite joining the squad late in the tournament.
Ruturaj Gaikwad rises, Shreyas Iyer slips down
One of the more surprising inclusions near the top was Ruturaj Gaikwad, who secured fourth place in Rayudu’s rankings. After a difficult start to the season, the skipper managed to turn things around and guide Chennai Super Kings (CSK) back into playoff contention. Rayudu praised Gaikwad’s calm approach and ability to rebuild confidence within the squad after early setbacks.
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer was ranked fifth. Despite another decent season personally, Punjab Kings (PBKS) inconsistent bowling performances reportedly affected his overall captaincy rating. Further down the list, Riyan Parag and Ajinkya Rahane occupied sixth and seventh positions, respectively.
Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant placed at the bottom
Rayudu reserved the harshest criticism for Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant, who occupied the bottom three spots in his rankings. Axar’s side, Delhi Capitals (DC), also endured a disappointing campaign, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread due to Axar’s questionable decisions at the toss and frequent changes to the playing XI.
Pant was placed last after enduring a disastrous campaign, as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) managed only three wins from 11 matches before being knocked out of playoff contention. His struggles with the bat also contributed to the criticism. Pandya, meanwhile, was ranked ninth following a disappointing season for the Mumbai Indians (MI), who also failed to remain competitive in the playoff race.
Ambati Rayudu’s IPL 2026 captain rankings
- Shubman Gill
- Rajat Patidar
- Pat Cummins
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Shreyas Iyer
- Riyan Parag
- Ajinkya Rahane
- Axar Patel
- Hardik Pandya
- Rishabh Pant
