Riyan Parag appointed as RR's new captain for IPL 2026 (Source:X)
The decision to appoint Riyan Parag as the new captain of the Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026 is seen as a bold move by the franchise. However, as the Rajasthan Royals is up for sale, questions are now being raised about whether Riyan Parag’s captaincy is final or could change before the new season begins.
Parag was handed the leadership role after Sanju Samson was traded to the Chennai Super Kings in exchange for two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. The trade marked the end of Samson’s long association with the Royals and opened the door for a new leader.
Rajasthan Royals sale could change leadership plans
The biggest factor that could impact Riyan Parag's future as captain is the possible sale of the franchise. Reports suggest that the Jaipur-based team is in advanced talks with potential buyers.
If the ownership changes hands before IPL 2026, the new management could review key decisions, including the captaincy.
Currently, the majority stake in Rajasthan Royals is owned by businessman Manoj Badale through Emerging Media. He has controlled the franchise since 2009.
According to earlier reports by ESPNcricinfo, several bidders have been shortlisted, including Lancer Capital, Capri Global, Arizona-based entrepreneur Kal Somani, Govil, and the Times of India Group.
The Royals have reportedly appointed the The Raine Group as advisors for the sale. The investment bank has previously handled major sports deals, including the sales of Chelsea FC and Manchester United.
The franchise's valuation is believed to be between $1.2 and $1.8 billion, with final bids expected soon.
If new owners take charge, they may want to appoint their own captain, especially if they plan to reshape the team's brand and leadership approach.
Riyan Parag’s captaincy record under the spotlight
Riyan Parag is not new to leadership. He has captained Assam in domestic cricket and has experience handling responsibility at a young age.
Last season, he stepped in as stand-in skipper when Sanju Samson missed eight matches due to injury. However, the Rajasthan Royals managed to win only two of those eight games.
Despite that, his individual performance has improved over the years. Since making his IPL debut in 2019, he has played 84 matches for RR, scoring 1,566 runs and picking up seven wickets.
His best season came in 2024 when he scored 573 runs at an average of 52.09 and a strike rate of 149.21.
For now, Parag remains the appointed captain. But with the franchise sale process underway, nothing appears completely certain. The final decision may depend on who owns the Rajasthan Royals when the bidding process concludes.
IPL 2026 preparations continue
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the Rajasthan Royals will aim to end their long title drought.
Meanwhile, the BCCI is expected to announce the official schedule soon. The season is likely to begin in late March and run until late May or early June, depending on election schedules in certain states.
