IPL 2026: “I’ve done things right 80-85% right” Riyan Parag ready to take Rajasthan Royals captaincy after Sanju Samson’s exit – Khel Now

IPL
(Courtesy : IPL)
Riyan Parag has staked his claim for captaincy of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. This comes after RR parted ways with their longtime captain, Sanju Samson, trading the Indian wicket-keeper batter to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
This was to ensure a fresh start from the IPL 2026 season. They have made big changes to their support staff and administration, and the next thing will be to name their new captain after Sanju Samson. There are two players in line for captaincy, with Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal also vying for the spot.
Riyan Parag led the 2008 IPL champions in eight games last season, with two wins and six losses. The Assam all-rounder served as the IPL captain for the first time.
In the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, Parag is now guiding his Assam cricket team, and both the team’s and his own performances have been outstanding. The catch is that Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal both want to be the RR’s league leaders.
“I captained in seven to eight matches in the IPL last season. In the dressing room, when we would analyze decisions, I have done things right 80 to 85 percent,” he told Sportstar.
Parag stated that team owner Manoj Badale had stated that a decision would be taken during the auction, which is set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, and that he is not currently overanalyzing the possible obligation.
“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,” he said.
He also reflected on how captaincy extends beyond tactical calls on the field.
“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 percent. You have to attend all the meetings, attend sponsor shoots, and answer the media. I need to develop these things as a person,” Parag added.
With these three players vying for RR captaincy, the franchise has traded in Ravindra Jadeja from CSK in lieu of Sanju Samson, and Jadeja is also a leading contender to become RR captain. Jadeja had captained CSK in IPL 2022, but his failure to lead the team to wins in the first half and injury led to MS Dhoni regaining the captaincy midway through the season.
Rajasthan Royals have retained Riyan Parag for a salary of INR 14 crores.
Riyan Parag scored 393 runs in 14 games in IPL 2025.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Where passion meets insight — blending breaking news, in-depth strategic analysis, viral moments, and jaw-dropping plays into powerful sports content designed to entertain, inform, and keep you connected to your favorite teams and athletes. Expect daily updates, expert commentary and coverage that never leaves a fan behind.

source