Since its inception in 2013, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has seen multiple captains take charge, each bringing their own leadership style to the franchise. Some led with aggression, others with composure, and a few struggled to make an impact. Let’s take a look at Sunrisers Hyderabad all captains, analyzing their leadership approach, team performance, and key moments during their tenure.

Sunrisers Hyderabad All Captains List

Kumar Sangakkara (2013)

Kumar Sangakkara, the first name on the SRH all captains list, led the team in their debut season. A calm and strategic leader, he laid the foundation for the team’s early structure. However, his stint was short-lived as he played only nine matches as captain before stepping aside for Cameron White.

Cameron White (2013)

Taking over from Sangakkara, White proved to be a tactical captain. Under his leadership, SRH had a strong run in their debut IPL season, securing a playoff spot. His aggressive decision-making and ability to handle pressure contributed to the team’s initial success.

Shikhar Dhawan (2013-2014)

A flamboyant opener, Dhawan took over the captaincy in 2013 but struggled to make a significant impact as a leader. In his 16 matches as captain, SRH had an inconsistent run, and his leadership was often questioned due to his inexperience at the time. Eventually, he was replaced mid-season.

Darren Sammy (2014)

The West Indian all-rounder captained SRH for a brief stint in 2014. Known for his infectious energy and ability to inspire teammates, Sammy led with passion. However, his tenure lasted only four matches, with mixed results, as SRH failed to make a significant mark that season.

David Warner (2015-2021)

David Warner is undoubtedly the most successful amongst the Sunrisers Hyderabad all captains. Taking charge in 2015, Warner immediately brought an aggressive mindset to the team, leading from the front with his explosive batting. Under his leadership, SRH reached new heights, culminating in their maiden IPL title in 2016. That season, Warner scored 848 runs, playing a pivotal role in guiding SRH to the trophy. His ability to inspire teammates and his attacking approach made SRH one of the most feared teams in the tournament.

Throughout his tenure, David Warner maintained consistency, leading the team in 67 matches and securing 35 wins. His proactive approach in making bold bowling changes and backing young talent helped SRH remain competitive. However, his time as captain ended controversially in 2021 when he was stripped of leadership and later dropped from the playing XI, signaling a bitter fallout with the management. Despite this, Warner remains a legendary figure in SRH’s history, leaving a lasting impact with his leadership and exceptional performances.

Kane Williamson (2018-2022)

Kane Williamson became a prominent name on the SRH all captains list in 2018 when Warner was suspended due to the ball-tampering scandal. Instantly, he made an impact with his composed and tactically astute leadership, guiding SRH to the IPL final in his first full season in charge. Williamson was not just a leader by designation but also a performer, finishing as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 735 runs. His calm demeanor and ability to make calculated decisions under pressure made him a respected leader within the squad.

While his first season as captain was a resounding success, SRH struggled with inconsistency in subsequent years. Injuries, team changes, and lack of firepower affected results, leading to mixed performances. Kane Williamson’s leadership was often praised for its resilience, but the lack of squad depth led to underwhelming campaigns. By 2022, with SRH failing to find rhythm, he was released from the team. Though he couldn’t replicate Warner’s trophy success, Williamson’s tenure was marked by steady leadership, tactical excellence, and a team-first approach.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2019, 2023)

One of SRH’s most loyal players, Bhuvneshwar Kumar had two brief stints as captain. While his experience and calm demeanor were valuable, the team struggled under his leadership, winning just two out of eight matches. His strength remained in his bowling rather than captaincy.

Manish Pandey (2021)

Pandey joined the SRH all captains list and led the team for just one match in 2021 after Warner was dropped. Unfortunately, his only game as captain ended in defeat, and he was not considered for a longer stint.

Aiden Markram (2023)

Markram took charge in 2023 but had a disappointing run, winning only four out of 13 matches. While he showed promise as a leader, the team failed to find consistency under him, leading to his removal after one season.

Pat Cummins (2024)

The most recent captain, Cummins, led SRH in 2024 with a fresh approach. A natural leader and proven tactician, he guided the team to a decent campaign, winning nine out of 16 matches. His leadership style emphasized strategic bowling changes and aggressive gameplay.

Conclusion

Over the years, the list of the Sunrisers Hyderabad all captains has seen a mix of personalities—some highly successful, others struggling to make an impact. While Warner remains the most decorated leader in their history, the franchise continues to evolve under new leadership. As SRH looks ahead, their choice of captain will play a crucial role in shaping their future in the IPL.