IPL 2021: From Rishabh Pant to R Ashwin, top five contenders likely to lead Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer

The newly-recruited Australian cricketer may find himself handed the responsiblity to take charge of Delhi Capitals in the absence of Shreyas Iyer. Steve Smith has earlier led the Australian cricket team and was the captain of Rajasthan Royals in the previous editions. (BCCI) 

A name that has not been buzzing much, but Prithvi Shaw's achievment with the India U-19 team in World Cup and Mumbai's recent performance under his leadership in the Vijay Hazre Trophy also raises his prospects as a natural team leader. (BCCI) 

Rishabh Pant is arguably in the form of his life and his recent heroics on the pitch may tempt the franchise to hand over the helm to the 23-year-old. As per a report in the Times Of India, Delhi Capitals have groomed the young wicketkeeper-batsman over the last three years, moulding him into a future leader of the franchise. (BCCI)  

Ajinkya Rahane shares a great reputation as a team leader, something which was evident in India's last tour to Australia. Under his helm, a second-string Indian team defeated Australia and reatined the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He has also led IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in previous editions. (BCCI)

R Ashwin, who has prior captaincy experience with Kings XI Punjab, now rechristened as Punjab Kings, is an ideal candidate, who can take charge as the new leader for the franchise. (BCCI)