In the high-octane world of the Indian Premier League, captaincy isn’t just a tactical role, it’s a badge of honour, a position that comes with the weight of expectation, media glare, and intense fan loyalty. IPL captains aren’t just leading teams; they’re often superstars themselves, World Cup winners, national skippers, and legends of the game. So, when a captain is dropped or replaced mid-season, it’s more than just a cricketing decision; it’s a full-blown cricketing drama.
From David Warner, the bulldozing Aussie opener with a penchant for match-winning knocks, to MS Dhoni, the calm-as-the-moon tactician whose decisions shaped CSK’s dynasty, these aren’t fringe players. These are titans. So when even these giants were asked to step aside, it sent shockwaves through fans, pundits, and dressing rooms alike.
While some stepped down gracefully, others were unceremoniously removed. Some changes revived teams; others deepened the crisis. Here’s a look at five jaw-dropping moments when IPL captains were replaced mid-season, each decision as bold as it was controversial.
5. Ajinkya Rahane Replaced by Steve Smith – RR (2019)
What Happened:
Rajasthan Royals were languishing at the bottom of the table in IPL 2019 when Steve Smith took over the captaincy from Ajinkya Rahane after 8 games.
Why the Change:
RR had lost 6 of their first 8 matches, and Rahane’s passive captaincy was questioned. The team needed a fresh spark, and Smith’s aggressive instincts were deemed necessary.
Aftermath:
RR saw some improvement but didn’t qualify for the playoffs. Interestingly, Rahane responded with a century right after losing the captaincy, showing that pressure lifted can sometimes boost individual performances.
4. Kane Williamson In, Warner Out – SRH (2018)
What Happened:
Though not an in-season change, this sudden captaincy swap just before IPL 2018 had similar shockwaves. After the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, Warner was banned from the season, and Kane Williamson was named captain last minute.
Why It Matters:
Williamson, considered a quiet tactician, had big shoes to fill. With minimal preparation time, he led a team that had lost its talismanic leader.
Aftermath:
Under Williamson, SRH made it to the final and gave CSK a strong fight. It was a defining moment in Williamson’s IPL journey and showed how leadership transitions can still produce results.
3. David Warner Dropped and Stripped – SRH (2021)
What Happened:
In a dramatic fall from grace, David Warner, who had led Sunrisers Hyderabad to their only IPL title in 2016, was not just removed as captain mid-season in 2021, but also dropped from the playing XI.
Why the Change:
SRH started poorly, and Warner’s form and decision-making were questioned. His blunt comments in press conferences reportedly didn’t sit well with the management. Kane Williamson took over the captaincy.
Aftermath:
Warner didn’t play another game that season and eventually parted ways with SRH. Ironically, he came back strong in 2022 with the Delhi Capitals, showing he still had plenty to offer.
2. Ravindra Jadeja Replaced by MS Dhoni – CSK (2022)
What Happened:
In a rare move, Chennai Super Kings began the 2022 season with Ravindra Jadeja as captain, taking over from the legendary MS Dhoni. However, just 8 matches in, Dhoni was back at the helm.
Why the Change:
Jadeja seemed overwhelmed with leadership responsibilities, and CSK had a dismal start. His form dipped drastically, and rumours of internal confusion began surfacing. The franchise decided to go back to the tried-and-tested Dhoni.
Aftermath:
Jadeja’s performance improved after he was relieved of captaincy, but CSK still finished 9th that season. The episode highlighted how captaincy can affect even seasoned players.
1. Dinesh Karthik Steps Down for Morgan – KKR (2020)
What Happened:
Midway through the 2020 season in the UAE, Kolkata Knight Riders made headlines when Dinesh Karthik voluntarily stepped down from captaincy after just 7 games, handing over the reins to England’s World Cup-winning skipper Eoin Morgan.
Why the Change:
While the team was still in playoff contention, Karthik’s form with the bat was abysmal. The management felt a new approach was needed, and Morgan’s calm leadership and recent international success made him an ideal replacement.
Aftermath:
KKR didn’t make the playoffs that year, but the leadership transition was seen as mature. It also foreshadowed Morgan’s full-time captaincy role in 2021, where KKR made it to the final.
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