Star all-rounder Riyan Parag is likely to be named the new captain of Rajasthan Royals ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026. The franchise reached the decision after head coach-cum-director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara interviewed several players. Parag was considered the most suitable candidate to lead the team in the 20-over tournament.
The change became necessary after Sanju Samson was traded to Chennai Super Kings. The Jaipur-based side needed a new leader. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja were also strong contenders. However, Parag eventually edged past them to take the role on a full-time basis.
Previous leadership and team hopes continue as Riyan Parag to take over leadership
This will not be Riyan Parag’s first time leading the Royals. He captained the team in eight matches during IPL 2025 when Samson was unavailable. Rajasthan won only a couple of those games. Still, Parag impressed with the bat. His best knock was 95 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders.
Parag also has leadership experience in domestic cricket. He has been a long-time captain of Assam. He is known for a fearless and tactical approach in all formats. Good performances in domestic cricket and the IPL earlier helped him earn an India cap. However, he spent time away from the game due to a recurring shoulder injury.
Rajasthan Royals will aim to win their second IPL title in 2026. The franchise has not lifted the trophy since its historic win in 2008 under Shane Warne.
Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to announce the official IPL 2026 schedule soon. Dates are being planned carefully to avoid clashes with election schedules in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, home states of CSK and KKR. The season is expected to begin in late March and run until late May or early June.
The Royals squad includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Sam Curran and several young Indian players.
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