Rajasthan Royals are betting big on youth, naming Riyan Parag their captain for IPL 2026. This seismic shift follows Sanju Samson’s pre-auction trade to CSK, closing a chapter that saw him become the franchise’s winningest skipper.
Since lifting the inaugural IPL trophy in 2008, RR has cycled through seven captains, all either Australian or Indian—no other nationalities have led this pink-clad army. Six knockout appearances underscore their consistency despite the single title.
Parag’s promotion feels earned. In IPL 2025, the 24-year-old donned the captain’s hat for eight games as a deputy, clinching two victories. His debut leadership outing against SRH on March 23, 2025, made him RR’s youngest-ever skipper and fifth in IPL history.
The franchise’s captaincy timeline reads like a hall of fame roster. Shane Warne’s legendary 2008 campaign set the tone, with 31 wins in 56 outings through 2011. Dravid’s tactical nous fetched third spot in 2013 and a CLT20 final berth, winning 23 of 40.
Watson pushed to playoffs in 2015, Rahane to fourth in 2018, Smith delivered 15 triumphs in 27 tries. Samson peaked with 33 wins from 67 games, including that unforgettable 2022 final journey.
As Parag steps up, fans wonder if this prodigy can harness RR’s storied leadership DNA to chase silverware once more in 2026.