Riyan Parag has emerged as one of Rajasthan Royals’ most intriguing young leaders, but despite the noise surrounding the franchise’s captaincy vacancy, the allrounder insists he is not thinking about the role right now. With Sanju Samson traded to Chennai Super Kings ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Parag’s name has quickly climbed the list of potential candidates — but his focus, he says, is on staying mentally clear and returning to peak performance after a shoulder injury.
Parag’s comments come at a time when RR is undergoing its largest leadership restructuring in years. His maturity, domestic captaincy experience, and steady growth as a T20 allrounder make him a compelling choice. Yet, he remains grounded, emphasizing personal performance goals — 500–600 runs, 10–15 wickets, and helping RR push for a title.
At 24, Parag already carries seven seasons of IPL experience, a domestic captaincy résumé with Assam, and a growing reputation as a clutch middle-order player. His role, influence, and voice inside the RR dressing room have expanded every year, making his future one of the most important storylines leading into IPL 2026.
Parag’s Honest Take on RR Captaincy: “Not Thinking About It Right Now”
Despite the speculation, Parag remains clear that leadership discussions at RR will only happen after the auction. He says focusing on captaincy prematurely would consume unnecessary mental space and distract him from preparing for the season ahead.
He explains that RR’s leadership culture makes every big decision collaborative. Owners, coaches, senior players, and data analysts come together before the franchise finalizes choices. This structure ensures pressure doesn’t fall on one individual, especially in the lead-up to a major auction.
What Parag emphasizes most is readiness — not ambition. If the management believes he fits the captaincy role, he will accept it. If they prefer him as a specialist player, he is equally prepared. His focus is on contribution, consistency, and growth, not titles.
The Leadership Void at Rajasthan Royals After Sanju Samson’s Exit
Sanju Samson’s trade to CSK sent shockwaves across the IPL ecosystem. For RR, Samson was not just a captain — he was a cultural anchor and mentor. His departure naturally opens conversations about succession.
RR’s leadership group now includes Ravindra Jadeja, Jos Buttler’s former influence, and senior domestic heads. Parag says Jadeja’s arrival automatically places him in this leadership core, ensuring that the team retains stability and clarity during transition.
This leadership committee will guide the auction strategy, player trades, and long-term planning. RR do not require an officially named captain before the auction — they require alignment, which Parag insists the group already has.
The Impact of Temporary Captaincy in IPL 2025 on Parag’s Mindset
Parag captained RR for eight games during Samson’s injury in IPL 2025. Even though the team won only two of those matches, Parag says internal analysis showed that “80 to 85%” of his decisions were correct.
This experience became a turning point. It taught him game reading, pressure handling, and field management on the sport’s biggest T20 stage. It also proved that he could make quick decisions with clarity — a crucial trait for leadership.
His self-awareness and ability to reflect with coaches and data analysts show a maturity beyond his age.
Parag’s Emotional Connection with Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson’s departure is not just professional — it is personal for Parag. He credits Samson for shaping his confidence, maturity, and presence within the franchise.
Samson treated him as an equal from the start, despite their age difference and Parag’s rookie status. Samson empowered him in team meetings and even made him vice-captain when foreign players left early.
This mentorship helped Parag understand match dynamics, leadership pacing, and player management. Samson leaving RR creates a void — but also a baton that Parag may now inherit.
