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"I have done things...": Riyan Parag confident with his chances as RR captain for IPL 2026

Soumyajit Dutta

Riyan Parag on his chances as RR captain for IPL 2026 [Source: @chinmayshah28/X.com]Riyan Parag on his chances as RR captain for IPL 2026 [Source: @chinmayshah28/X.com]

With Sanju Samson’s move to Chennai Super Kings, the Rajasthan Royals are on the lookout for a new captain for IPL 2026. Riyan Parag, who led the side in eight matches last season, is seen as a strong contender for the role. The all-rounder has addressed the growing speculation around the leadership position.

The franchise is expected to name its captain after the mini auction on December 16, as confirmed by team co-owner Manoj Badale. Parag discussed the challenges that come with being a skipper, emphasising that the decision rests entirely with the team management.

Riyan Parag confident with his leadership skills

With Ravindra Jadeja also in the mix of things of becoming the new captain, given his experience in the game, the ship slightly leans towards Riyan Parag. Speaking ahead of the auction after a SMAT 2025 match, Parag was confident in his abilities.

"I captained in seven to eight matches in the IPL last season. In the dressing room, when we would analyse decisions, I have done things right 80 to 85 per cent," Riyan Parag said to select media.

"If management feels right...I am ready": Riyan Parag 

Riyan Parag further added that he is ready to agree with any decision that the team management takes. He is up to take the role as a captain as well as just a player for the IPL 2026 edition.

"Manoj [Badale] sir has said the decision [on captaincy] will be taken after the auction. If I think about that now, I will ruin my mental space. If the team management feels I am the right fit for captaincy, I am ready to put my hand up. If they feel that, as a player, I can contribute more, I am ready for that also," Parag added.

Parag then shared what it feels like to be in the captain's shoes and sweated more on the off-field duties that the leader of a team has to attend to, rather than just leading his team to a win.

"Everyone has the misconception that captaincy is easy. Yes, there is an element of fame in captaincy, but it reduces the element of cricket to 20 per cent. You have to attend all the meetings, attend sponsor shoots, and answer the media. I need to develop these things as a person," Parag explained.

Other candidates in the running include Yashasvi Jaiswal as well, who just had a decent run in the India vs South Africa ODI series that commenced on November 30. 

While Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja remain as solid contenders, Riyan Parag's chances seem bright since he has been the face of the team during his stint as a stand-in skipper in the 2025 edition in the absence of Sanju Samson.