Since its debut in 2008, the Indian Premier League has become the most profitable domestic T20 tournament globally. Following on the heels of the IPL's success, a number of cricketing nations emulated the path taken by the BCCI and introduced their own T20 leagues around the world. The fact that the next IPL season will be preceded by another massive auction has raised eyebrows even before the competition begins. As the IPL 2025 continues to make waves, let's take a look at which teams are likely to release their captains into the auction. Mumbai Indians Image Source- India Today You might be surprised to see the Mumbai Indians on this list, but Hardik Pandya's first season as captain was disappointing, and the team finished last in the standings. Moreover, with India opting for Suryakumar Yadav as their skipper, MI may look at a similar approach to revamping their side. It might be highly unlikely, but it is not entirely ruled out either, as Pandya's tactics and fitness issues keep haunting his case as captain. Also Read | IPL Winners and Runner Ups (2008 - 2024): Who Emerged Victorious in Each Season? Royal Challengers Bengaluru Image Source- NDTV After Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis led Royal Challengers Bangalore as captain. He has been consistent with the bat but is yet to win a maiden trophy for RCB. RCB might be a bit skeptical about investing too much in him. Hence, it is highly likely that Faf du Plessis might become one of the big names in the auction pool. Punjab Kings Image Source- NDTV Like RCB, the Punjab Kings too have an experienced captain in Shikhar Dhawan, who has not been at his best for quite a while now. Though consistent, Shikhar was criticized for his strike rate during IPL 2024. More importantly, he missed virtually the entire season due to an injury. Based on his current form, Dhawan might not be retained for the coming season of the IPL. Also Read | Virat Kohli Total Centuries in All Format Lucknow Super Giants Image Source- ESPNCricinfo The Lucknow Super Giants have been consistent in the IPL but have kept missing the trophy. KL Rahul was criticized for his poor strike rate despite being skipper. The wicketkeeper batsman has frequently faced criticism for his cautious batting style in the shortest format of the game. Lucknow Super Giants may re-strategize their leadership blueprint and hence, maybe replace Rahul with a more dynamic option since retention would have bound him to a minimum of three-year tenure in the team. Delhi Capitals Image Source- News18 The Delhi Capitals are also likely to release their captain, Rishabh Pant, ahead of IPL 2025. Now, there are rumors that Pant might turn out for the five-time champion Chennai Super Kings in the next edition of the Indian Premier League. His below-par performance as a captain could also compel the owners of the Capitals to make a firm decision, considering that they are ardent supporters of their team. Read More | Top 10 Fastest Balls in Cricket History: Record-Breaking Deliveries