Two of the 10 team captains will draw attention for an unusual reason as we approach IPL 2026. Both Rishabh Pant, leading Lucknow Super Giants and Shreyas Iyer, captain of Punjab Kings haven't played a T20 match in the last 10 months and their match fitness levels are going to be scrutinized by critics and experts over the next few weeks.

Rishabh Pant is going through an unprecedented rough phase of his career. He did struggle with form in IPL 2025 and then was ruled out due to injury on India's tour to England in mid 2025. Although he made a come back in India's Test series against South Africa later that year, he has been away from T20 cricket since IPL 2025. The captain has not been part of any T20I since July 2024 making his return all the more crucial.

Shreyas Iyer is similar to Rishabh Pant. His last T20 appearance was in IPL 2025 and he went on to lead Punjab Kings to their maiden IPL final over 10 years. Although his side lost in the final against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Iyer's form was very impressive. Following that he got injured on India's tour to Australia, ruling him out of the game for a long spell. He also missed the T20 World Cup in 2026 and has not been a part of any T20I since December 2023.

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Matches are important for players to stay in rhythm especially in the format like T20 which demands high fitness levels and also, there isn't too much time for players to adjust and settle in the match. Due to the prolonged break, both Pant and Iyer might take a while to get back to their prime form.

For Rishabh Pant, this is a vital opportunity to bounce back. Leading Lucknow Super Giants in this edition, he will be expected to lead from the front with both the bat and through his captaincy and supporters will be watching eagerly to witness how he copes up.

Similarly, Shreyas Iyer too has a lot to prove. Shreyas Iyer led Punjab Kings to their first final in IPL 2025, and this is a big achievement for him. However, due to Iyer's absence in important matches, the new captain will look to make a big impact. Both these players have the potential to deliver, and if they start off on a winning note, they could be big contributors to the upcoming IPL.