As has been discussed a few times earlier, who will lead RR in IPL 2026; that question has been thrown at the franchise again, after Sanju Samson was traded to CSK, before the IPL retentions. There is a realistic chance that the team might opt for Riyan Parag, who even led in a few matches this year. But in an interaction with Sportstar, he clarified, that nothing is final as yet.

RR captain for IPL 2026 undecided

“Manoj [Badale] sir has stated the choice [on captaincy] might be taken after the public sale. If I take into consideration that now, I’ll damage my psychological area. If the staff administration feels I’m the best match for captaincy, I’m able to put my hand up. In the event that they really feel that, as a participant, I can contribute extra, I’m prepared for that additionally.”

“I captained in seven to eight matches in the IPL last season. In the dressing room, when we would analyse decisions, I have done things right 80 to 85 per cent,” he said. But then Riyan Parag did admit that the departure of Sanju Samson will leave a void in RR.

“I don’t want to think about his [Samson’s] absence, as a result of then I’ll really feel unhealthy. I used to be very near Sanju bhaiya after I got here into the staff. He by no means let me really feel that I used to be a 17 or 18-year-old boy from Assam. He additionally got here from that background, at 16-18, and helped me the best way he would have been helped at the moment. Within the final two years, he would give me vice-captaincy in Jos bhai’s absence. He would ask me to speak to the bowlers and attend staff conferences, and take the lead.”

Meanwhile, CSK agreed to the Sanju Samson trade, for the same price at which he was retained last year — 18 cr. But then Ravindra Jadeja, who was retained by CSK for 18 cr, would be paid 14 cr as part of the deal.