It is not uncommon for a franchise to release a captain before an auction. That has happened before, as well. Especially before a Mega Auction when a franchise is looking for a reset, releasing a captain who may not be a good option for the future is a wise idea. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three franchises that might release their captains before the IPL 2025 Mega Auctions.
1) Punjab Kings – Shikhar Dhawan
In the last two seasons, Shikhar Dhawan could not lead the Punjab Kings often. While he sat out due to form issues, he also faced fitness problems, which led Sam Curran to becoming the captain of the franchise.
That said, both Shikhar and Sam could be released by PBKS before the next auctions. While it is an age issue for Shikhar, PBKS might consider Sam as an attainable target at the bidding event.
2) Royal Challengers Bengaluru – Faf du Plessis
RCB is one of the franchises that might release their captains before the IPL 2025 Mega Auctions. Faf du Plessis did well both as a captain and as a batter for RCB.
Close to 40 now, it would be a shock if RCB retains Faf du Plessis. The franchise will be on the lookout for a new skipper and Faf might therefore be released.
3) Lucknow Super Giants – KL Rahul
Considering the issues that happened with KL Rahul last season, it might not be a surprise if LSG decide to release the player. In fact, even KL Rahul might himself want to continue his IPL career at a different franchise. Hence, he is on this list.
Nicholas Pooran would be the ideal man to take the franchise forward. KL Rahul is also key but the decisions would also depend on his form in the coming months.
