Captaincy in Indian cricket has always been more than a responsibility. It has been a symbol of emotion, power, and respect. Captains in every era have taken Team India to new heights, but in the end, almost all have had to succumb to politics, the system, or time. Today, when we see the rotation between Gill, Rohit, and Hardik, it’s clear that even though the captains may change, the pressure remains the same.
Here, learn the stories of 7 Indian captains who were stripped of their captaincy for one reason or another. Sometimes due to controversies, sometimes due to politics, and sometimes due to circumstances.
1. Sourav Ganguly-
Sourav Ganguly was stripped of his captaincy in 2005 amid the Greg Chappell controversy.
Due to differences within the team and poor form, the BCCI appointed Rahul Dravid as captain.
Nevertheless, ‘Dada’ returned and responded with the bat, becoming immortal in the hearts of fans as always.
2. Mahendra Singh Dhoni
Dhoni, who led India to three ICC trophies, gradually relinquished the captaincy. First Tests, then ODIs and T20s.
Although it was called a “voluntary decision,” winds of change were brewing within.
Dhoni led India to 178 victories in 332 matches, reinventing Indian cricket.
3. Virat Kohli
During Virat Kohli’s tenure, India saw many major victories, but his relationship with the BCCI deteriorated. After relinquishing the T20 captaincy, he was also stripped of the ODI captaincy. Kohli himself stated that he was informed of the change only 90 minutes before team selection.
He has 135 wins in 213 matches.
4. KL Rahul
He was given the reins of the team on several occasions, but his form and strike rate were constantly questioned.
Gradually, Hardik and Gill were promoted above him.
Rahul captained 16 matches and won 11.
5. Rishabh Pant
A car accident in 2022 changed the course of Pant’s career.
He was on his way to becoming a captain, but a long-term injury made his comeback difficult.
Under his captaincy, India played 5 matches, winning 2, losing 2, and ending in a draw.
6. Hardik Pandya
After leading the Gujarat Titans to a trophy, Hardik was appointed captain of the T20 team.
But injuries, attitude, and differences with the management eroded his confidence.
He captained 19 matches, winning 12.
7. Rohit Sharma
Rohit led India to the 2023 World Cup final, the 2024 T20 World Cup, and the 2025 Champions Trophy,
yet he was stripped of the ODI captaincy.
What happened to Virat once happened to him now.
Rohit has captained 142 matches and won 103.
Perhaps one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history.
