Ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Rajasthan Royals have made a significant decision by appointing all-rounder Riyan Parag as the team's new captain. This change comes after the franchise decided to trade their long-serving captain, Sanju Samson, to the Chennai Super Kings. In exchange for Samson, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran have joined Rajasthan Royals, infusing the team with new talent and experience as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Riyan Parag, who is 24 years old, was already considered a contender for captaincy alongside opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Parag has previously led the team when Samson was injured and missed eight matches last season, during which Rajasthan won two of those games. Despite the challenges faced, Parag proved his worth with a commendable batting average of 38.57 and achieved his career-best performance scoring 95 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, showcasing his potential as a leader on the field.

The selection of the new captain comes after head coach Kumar Sangakkara conducted interviews with several players, signaling a fresh strategy for the franchise as they aim for greater success in the IPL. This leadership change not only reflects the franchise's confidence in Parag's abilities but also marks a pivotal moment in the team’s journey as they look to establish a new identity and compete effectively in the league with a mix of established stars and emerging talent.