Rahane Joins Exclusive Club of Multi-Team IPL Captains

Ajinkya Rahane, leading Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, entered the record books on March 22 by becoming the first Indian player to captain three teams in the Indian Premier League. The opening match between KKR and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens marked Rahane’s 26th IPL match as a captain. Previously, he led Rising Pune Supergiants in one match of IPL 2017 and Rajasthan Royals in 24 matches across IPL 2018 and 2019.

He joins a select group of players, including Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, and Steve Smith, who have captained three different IPL teams.

Players Who Have Led Three IPL Teams

  • Kumar Sangakkara – Punjab Kings (13), Deccan Chargers (25), Sunrisers Hyderabad (9)

  • Mahela Jayawardene – Punjab Kings (1), Kochi Tuskers Kerala (13), Delhi Capitals (16)

  • Steve Smith – Pune Warriors India (1), Rising Pune Super Giants (15), Rajasthan Royals (27)

  • Ajinkya Rahane – Rising Pune Supergiants (1), Rajasthan Royals (24), Kolkata Knight Riders (1)*

Former Australian captain Steve Smith led Pune Warriors India in one match in IPL 2012, Rajasthan Royals in 27 matches, and Rising Pune Super Giants in 15 matches. Similarly, Jayawardene captained Punjab Kings (2010), Kochi Tuskers Kerala (2011), and Delhi Capitals (2012-2013).

Shreyas Iyer to Join the Elite List

Shreyas Iyer, IPL 2024-winning captain, will join Rahane in this exclusive club on March 25 when he leads Punjab Kings. Iyer has previously captained Delhi Capitals in 41 IPL matches and Kolkata Knight Riders in 29 matches across IPL 2022 and 2024.

The 30-year-old right-handed batter was signed by Punjab Kings for ?26.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. He holds the distinction of being the only IPL captain to play in the final with two different teams. In the upcoming season, he aims to become the first captain to win the IPL title with two franchises.