In the early years of the IPL, several legends took the helm based on their vast leadership experience, despite never playing a T20 International (T20I) for their country.
The legendary leg-spinner never played a T20I but famously captained Rajasthan Royals to the inaugural title in 2008 with a 55% win rate.
Despite being India's most iconic captain, he retired from internationals without playing a T20I, later leading KKR and Pune in 42 matches.
"Jumbo" retired from international cricket in 2008 without a T20I cap, yet he led RCB to the 2009 finals with a strong 57.69% win record.
A Test specialist who never featured in India's T20I plans, Laxman was the original captain for the Deccan Chargers in 2008.
A modern exception; though he scored a Test triple-century, he was handed the Delhi captaincy in 2017 without ever having played a T20I for India.