Franchises usually start a new era after a mega-auction. It is usually the best time to do it because there will be a new set of players in the squad. This way, for the next cycle, the core of the squad can be developed. However, at times, franchisees will be forced to change the captaincy due to a variety of factors. Similarly, ahead of IPL 2023, too, we could see a few changes. In this article, we take a look at three teams that could go for a captaincy change in IPL 2023.
1) Chennai Super Kings
The CSK captaincy went from MS Dhoni to Ravindra Jadeja and has now landed back in the hands of the four-time IPL-winning skipper. That said, when MS Dhoni retires, CSK needs to hand over the duties to someone experienced in the task.
If MSD is retiring next season, CSK will have very less time to make their decision. There are a few options within the squad but the management could have to explore names in the auction market, as well.
2) Royal Challengers Bangalore
RCB is one of the teams that could go for a captaincy change in IPL 2023. Ahead of the ongoing campaign, amidst much fanfare, the management announced that Faf du Plessis would captain the squad. Based on the confidence with which the announcement was made, it seems they were seeing at least the next cycle of IPL with Faf at the helm.
However, it needs to be noted that the South African is 37 years old. More importantly, he has been too inconsistent with his batting. Virat Kohli is also going through a similar phase and if RCB had to sacrifice one player, it will be Faf. The captaincy slot will be vacant again and RCB should either trust Glenn Maxwell or find a new leader.
3) Punjab Kings
Although Punjab Kings have been good, considering the team that they had got, they have clearly underperformed in IPL 2022. Mayank Agarwal has looked good as a captain but his performances have dropped.
For PBKS, Mayank’s batting form is more important than his captaincy. Hence, it would not be a surprise if Shikhar Dhawan takes up the role and Mayank returns to becoming a free-flowing opener.
