Mar 20, 2024
By: Ayush MehrotraThe much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set to commence its 17th edition on March 22, 8 pm, with an electrifying match between the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Credit: BCCL
Renowned for his astute leadership, MS Dhoni continues to command Chennai Super Kings for a record 15th season this year. With five IPL titles under their belt, CSK has continued to trust Dhoni’s iconic captaincy skills even for the 2024 season.
Credit: BCCL
In a significant but controversial move, Hardik Pandya captains Mumbai Indians this year. Taking over from Rohit Sharma, Pandya aims to replicate his success with the Gujarat Titans and to continue MI's legacy of five IPL titles.
Credit: BCCL
After a major car accident in December 2022, Rishabh Pant is finally returning to cricket after 15 months. He missed the entire 2023 season, leading Delhi Capitals to appoint David Warner as captain. The 2023 campaign proved challenging for DC, lacking multiple departments and ending 9th in the points table. Hopes now centre around Rishabh Pant's efforts to resurrect the team.
Credit: BCCL
Gujarat Titans, entrust the 24-year-old Shubman Gill with captaincy for 2024. The team has played only two seasons till now, and won the championship in its very first season in 2022, followed by being the runner-up in the last edition.
Credit: BCCL
Under the captaincy of its long-term player Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals will embark on the 2024 IPL season with fresh hopes. The franchise named Sanju as its captain during the 2021 season and continues to trust his leadership.
Credit: BCCL
Stability returns as Shreyas Iyer captains Kolkata Knight Riders. Following a period of frequent changes, KKR relies on Iyer's leadership for the 2024 season to steer them towards IPL success and end their drought.
Credit: BCCL
Seasoned batter and part-time wicketkeeper, KL Rahul, leads Lucknow Super Giants this season as well. His leadership guided LSG to playoffs in both seasons since their debut in 2022, setting high expectations for their 2024 campaign.
Credit: BCCL
Veteran batter Shikhar Dhawan takes charge of Punjab Kings for IPL 2024. With a focus on reviving the once formidable team, Dhawan aims to build on the team's foundation and lead them to their first IPL trophy.
Credit: BCCL
Faf du Plessis leads Royal Challengers Bangalore for the third time in pursuit of their first IPL title. The team’s renowned captain Virat Kohli stepped down in 2021 after a disappointing outing to focus on his batting. Under du Plessis' guidance, RCB has put up strong performances during the last two seasons.
Credit: BCCL
For IPL 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad's management has entrusted the World Cup-winning Australian skipper Pat Cummins with leading the team, replacing South African cricketer Aiden Markram. The 2023 season didn't go well for the team, ending their campaign at the bottom of the points table. It's important to note that Cummins hasn't yet led any team in the IPL, despite outstanding track records in ODI and Test cricket.
Credit: X-SunRisers-Hyderabad