Mumbai witnessed a grand spectacle as the captains of all ten IPL franchises gathered near the iconic Gateway of India for a photoshoot on March 20. 

The event, held just hours after their meeting at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) headquarters, saw the captains posing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

Amidst the familiar faces of Indian captains, Pat Cummins stood out as the only overseas leader in IPL 2025. The Australian pacer, who took charge of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) last season, found himself at the center of the frame, symbolising his unique role in this year's tournament. 

Cummins' leadership was instrumental in SRH's resurgence in 2024, with his aggressive strategies helping the team post three of the top five highest totals in IPL history.

To Cummins' left, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai Super Kings' skipper, took his place alongside Royal Challengers Bengaluru's newly appointed leader, Rajat Patidar. Hardik Pandya, captaining Mumbai Indians, and Axar Patel, the new face of Delhi Capitals' leadership, completed the left side of the formation.

On Cummins' right, Shreyas Iyer stood out in his new Punjab Kings jersey, having secured a record-breaking deal in the IPL 2025 mega auction after leading Kolkata Knight Riders to victory last season. Gujarat Titans' Shubman Gill and Rajasthan Royals' Sanju Samson followed, with Rishabh Pant, the fresh leader of Lucknow Super Giants, and Ajinkya Rahane, now helming the defending champions KKR, finalizing the lineup.

The captains' meeting at the BCCI headquarters brought significant changes, notably the elimination of match bans for slow over-rate violations. Instead, a demerit points system will be introduced, carrying penalties over a three-year period. This shift aligns with the International Cricket Council's approach, ensuring teams remain mindful of game pacing while reducing direct disruptions to leadership roles.

Additionally, the Decision Review System (DRS) will now allow referrals for height-based wides and off-stump wides, a modification expected to impact crucial match decisions. As IPL 2025 approaches, these changes set the stage for an exciting season ahead.