as IPL 2026 nearing the end of his tenure, the debate surrounding his captaincy performances has become one of the biggest topics of discussion among fans and pundits alike. With several teams fighting for playoff spots and others continuing already disappointing campaigns, leadership decisions have been decisive throughout the season. Amid the growing debate, the former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu He has shared his ranking for the best captains of IPL 2026. While some of the expected names have been revealed above, the final order has created huge reactions online.
Indian captain defeated Rajat Patidar and Pat Cummins
According to Rayudu, Shubman Gill has been the outstanding captain of IPL 2026 so far. The skipper won the top spot mainly because of his effective control of the bowling attack and his consistency of play. Gujarat Titans (GT) demonstrated 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 bowling performances of the Titans, who often saved the team in pressure situations.
Rajat Patidar he finished second after leading the team to the top of the points table for most of the season. Patidar impressed with both his leadership and batting contributions, helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) maintain consistency despite several difficult stages. He went to third place Pat Cumminswho managed to keep Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) among playoff contenders despite joining the lineup late.
Ruturaj Gaikwad steps up, Shreyas Iyer slides down
Near the top was one of the more surprising inclusions Ruturaj GaikwadRayudu secured the fourth place in the ranking. After a difficult start to the season, the skipper managed to turn things around and steer things around Chennai Super Kings (CSK) back to playoff contention. Rayudu praised Gaikwad’s calm approach and ability to restore confidence in the team after early setbacks.
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer ranked fifth. Despite another decent season personally, Kings of Punjab (PBKS) inconsistent bowling performances reportedly affected his overall captaincy rating. Further down the list, Rian Parag and Ajinkya Rahane ranked sixth and seventh respectively.
Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant were placed below
Rayudu reserved the harshest criticism for himself Akhar Patel, Hardik Pandyaand Rishabh pantsthe last three in his ranking. Downstream, Delhi Capitals (DC)also endured a disappointing campaign, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread due to Axar’s questionable fielding decisions and frequent changes to the playing 11.
After enduring a disastrous campaign as Pant, he was placed last Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) managed to win only three out of 11 matches before being eliminated from playoff contention. His struggle with the bat has also drawn criticism. Pandya, meanwhile, finished ninth after a disappointing season Mumbai Indians (MI)he also couldn’t stay competitive in the playoffs.
Also READ: IPL 2026 (WATCH): Virat Kohli’s hilarious stump mic comment during RCB vs KKR clash goes viral
Ambati Rayudu’s IPL 2026 captain rating
- Shubman Gill
- Rajat Patidar
- Pat Cummins
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Shreyas Iyer
- Rian Parag
- Ajinkya Rahane
- Akhar Patel
- Hardik Pandya
- Rishabh pants
Also READ: IPL 2026 (WATCH): Yuzvendra Chahal bowls Rohit Sharma with exceptional delivery during PBKS vs MI
