Rajasthan Royals are all set to have a new leader at the helm of affairs in the form of Riyan Parag. The Assam all-rounder had captained the sides in a few games in IPL 20-25 but will take complete control of the team after Sanju Samson has been traded to Chennai Super Kings. Ahead of the start of the marquee tournament , Parag has revealed his roadmap as captain and has drawn inspiration from the ongoing football Premier League.
What are Parag’s plans for RR in IPL 2026?
In an interview with India Today, Parag revealed that he wants to take a leaf out of West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen’s book and wants to communicate with his RR unit effectiely, without arrogance.
“Last year we were ninth, How do you motivate your players to come out and perform every single time, knowing you’re not going to win the trophy, knowing you’re not going to qualify, but still going out there and putting on a show for everyone who’s paid their hard-earned money? The way he’s handled himself, the way he’s passed on his messaging and motivation to his team, without sounding arrogant, without coming across the wrong way, that’s something I can learn from,” Parag said. I’m really glad I had those conversations. If we’re ever in a similar situation in the IPL, this year, next year, whenever, that’s going to be really helpful,” Parag said.
RR finished 9th on the points table in IPL 2025, with just 4 win and 10 losses. While they have been bolstered by the addition of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to their squad, the team will face a setback in the form of letting go of veteran Sanju Samson.
RR full schedule for IPL 2026
| Match | Date | Day | Home | Away | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 30/03/26 | Mon | Rajasthan Royals | Chennai Super Kings | Guwahati | 19:30 |
| 9 | 04/04/26 | Sat | Gujarat Titans | Rajasthan Royals | Ahmedabad | 19:30 |
| 13 | 07/04/26 | Tue | Rajasthan Royals | Mumbai Indians | Guwahati | 19:30 |
| 16 | 10/04/26 | Fri | Rajasthan Royals | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Guwahati | 19:30 |
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