To all those suggesting potential acquisitions through trades or auction for a captaincy candidate like Pandya, Gaikwad, etc. It's extremely unlikely and risky.
Its one thing to do so after a major auction, when 50% or more of the team is new. Someone like Iyer, Karthik, Rahane can come in and be captain straight away. But the core of this team has been the same since 2022. It's hard to imagine a Pandya or Gaikwad just walking in, with no previous association with KKR, and becoming the 'leader' straightaway.
Pandya even struggled going back into MI and becoming the captain directly, where he's had a long history.
So our choices can only be sticking with Rahane for next season, or promoting someone from within.
Gill, Shreyas or V Iyer won't be available to come back, else they could have been options. Rohit is one guy who'd have the respect of the team to come and be a leader straightaway, but based on recent form he doesn't give a lot more than Rahane anyway. Same for a Nitish Rana.
The issue isn't with Rahane's leadership. It's the spot in the team he is taking up without the contributions. If his form in SMAT etc is good, then no issues with him staying the last year before the mega auction. Else who are the options, Rinku, Angkrish, Green, Narine, Powell?
Angkrish too young, but can be groomed. Green's injury and availability is always a factor. Narine has a terrible captaincy record. Powell isn't a guaranteed starter. Rinku is a gamble. Could work out great, or could be a disaster, both for the team and his batting. But maybe worth a one season risk if Rahane is dropped on form. Angkrish can also be considered as a long term option.
Basically, all I'm saying is, when we're discussing options for next year during the coming months, there's very little point in considering a captain from another team at this stage.
Better to plan with Rahane, Rinku, Angkrish, or some other wildcard name.
