Riyan Parag Set To Lead Rajasthan Royals As Captain In IPL 2026

Head coach Kumar Sangakkara conducted detailed interviews with potential candidates, and the 24-year-old Assam all-rounder emerged as the clear choice to replace Sanju Samson. Samson was traded to Chennai Super Kings before the 2026 auction, ending his long stint with the franchise.

According to the reports, Parag’s appointment is all but confirmed, pending an official announcement. He outranked other contenders, including Yashasvi Jaiswal—who had expressed interest in the role—and new recruit Ravindra Jadeja.

Parag previously served as stand-in captain for eight matches last season during Samson’s injury absence. He averaged 38.57 with a high score of 95 against Kolkata Knight Riders, though the team managed only two wins in those games.

The decision reflects a clear preference for youth and continuity. Rather than turning to experienced options like Jadeja or Jos Buttler, Royals are investing in a player who has grown within the franchise since his IPL debut and was retained in previous seasons.

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Samson’s exit closed an 11-year chapter that included consistent playoff qualification and a 2022 finals appearance. The trade brought Jadeja and Sam Curran to Jaipur, bolstering the squad’s all-round depth.

By handing the captaincy to Parag, Rajasthan Royals are committing to building around emerging Indian talent for long-term success.