![Rahane, Parag hailed as IPL's worst batters [Source: AP, AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1776773015694_Rahane,ParaghailedasIPL'sworstbatters.jpg?type=hq)
Rahane, Parag hailed as IPL's worst batters [Source: AP, AFP]
Captaincy in IPL can change the life of a player- it can have a positive impact, and it can also make them crumble under pressure. Captaincy is the exact reason that has brought the downfall of two IPL captains, Riyan Parag and Ajinkya Rahane.
The two elegant players have failed to deliver clinical knocks in the ongoing IPL 2026, and while Rajasthan Royals have done well despite Parag’s failures, KKR has faltered under Rahane.
In the last couple of seasons, Rahane reinvented his T20 style of play and got immediate success when he represented the CSK side. However, in the last two seasons, his strike-rate after the powerplay has often come under scrutiny.
Riyan Parag’s case is a bit different. He has been playing in the IPL since the 2019 edition, but Parag has only had one good IPL season (in 2024). Under his guidance, RR have won four IPL games, but the credit for the wins should be given to Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
India legend drags Parag, Rahane into the "worst IPL batter" conversation
Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth didn’t mince his words as he slammed Parag for never showing up for his team, and at the same time, he dragged Rahane into the conversation.
"Parag, as usual, is fit only for his stylish walks after doing nothing with bat and ball. There is a competition between him and Rahane as to who's the worst batter. Parag did well one season, and that's it," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
Srikkanth stressed that the two have not done enough for their franchises in recent times, and have failed to stand up for the team when needed the most.
Also Read: "Average Player With Aggressive PR": Riyan Parag Faces Heat From RR Fans After Struggle vs KKR
Parag, Rahane's poor IPL 2026 season so far
Parag exhibits immense talent, but so far, he hasn’t been able to live up to the hype generated by the Rajasthan Royals. He has represented the Royals in 8 seasons, and the Assam batter has been a disappointment in seven of those IPL campaigns.
The likes of Sooryavanshi, Jaiswal, and even Dhruv Jurel have dragged RR’s batting lineup this season, with Parag struggling for runs. In IPL 2026, he has amassed 61 runs in 6 matches, with a strike rate of 122.
Moreover, in 90 IPL games, Parag has just scored 1627 runs, with an average of 25, and a strike rate of 140.
The same has been the case with KKR skipper, Rahane, this season. He has scored runs in the powerplay, but once the field restrictions get over, he struggles for runs. In 7 games this season, Ajinkya Rahane has slammed 152 runs, with a strike rate of 144.
Parag's place safe in RR, Rahane under threat
Riyan Parag may not have performed well with the bat, but his captaincy has been impressive. Thanks to his leadership, RR are third in the standings with four wins from six games. His strong captaincy has helped cover up his struggles with batting.
Rahane’s struggles with the bat have affected his captaincy. The former CSK and MI player has made some tactical mistakes, and now the team is at the bottom of the table with only one win.
Some experts are even calling for Rahane to be dropped from the KKR playing XI as his run-scoring drops after the first 6 overs.
Also Read: Ayush Mhatre Replacement: 3 Players Who Could Join CSK IPL 2026 Squad
