Rajasthan Royals are heading into the IPL 2026 auction without a designated captain, and that alone turns Riyan Parag into a talking point.
With Sanju Samson traded to Chennai Super Kings, Parag is among the natural candidates within the RR squad — especially after leading the side in eight games last season when Samson was injured. The Royals won two of those matches, and Parag said internal reviews suggested most of his tactical decisions were correct.
However, the 23-year-old insists he isn’t actively chasing the job.
“There haven’t been any discussions about captaincy at RR yet,” Parag said on ESPNCricinfo. “If the management feels I’m the right fit, I’m ready. Otherwise, I’ll contribute as a player.”
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RR are in no rush to name a captain, Riyan Parag not waiting
Unlike several other franchises, Royals prefer a collective leadership group approach to key decisions — including trades and auction strategies.
Ravindra Jadeja, who has joined the franchise as part of the Samson trade, is expected to be a central figure in that group. Parag emphasised that RR do not require a formal captain for the auction.
“Any big decision is made after consulting everyone… So I don’t think we need a captain before the auction.”
That leaves two possibilities:
- RR wait for the auction, pick a senior leader externally, and then decide
- Parag, Jadeja or another retained player is appointed after December 16
Performance still a factor
Parag’s domestic returns have dipped this season, although he attributes part of that slump to a shoulder niggle he is still recovering from. He maintains that his IPL record and all-round role continue to keep him in India’s white-ball plans.
“As soon as my shoulder is completely healed, you’ll see me back in the Indian blue jersey again.”
Broad candidate pool
Parag’s name is prominent, but not the only one in the conversation. RR could consider:
- Jadeja — immediate senior option
- External signing — depending on auction dynamics
- Parag — if they back continuity and long-term growth
For now, the captaincy question defines RR’s pre-auction build-up. And Parag’s stance suggests he is willing, but not waiting.
