In a move that signals a fresh direction for the franchise, Riyan Parag has been appointed captain of the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The decision comes after Sanju Samson completed a high-profile switch to the Chennai Super Kingsbringing an end to his long leadership stint in Jaipur.

The announcement has stirred widespread reactions across social media platforms, with fans expressing everything from excitement and pride to skepticism and concern. For the Royals, however, the message is clear: the future will be built around youth, continuity and belief in homegrown talent.

From teenage prodigy to franchise leader: Riyan Parag’s journey

Parag’s journey with the Royals began in 2019 when he debuted as one of the youngest players in the tournament. Seven seasons later, he steps into the captaincy role having featured in 84 IPL matches and accumulated 1,566 runs at a healthy strike rate of 141.84.

His breakthrough campaign came in 2024, when he piled up 573 runs at a strike rate touching 149.21, transforming himself from a promising finisher into a reliable top-order force. Though his aggregate dipped to 393 runs last season, he maintained an explosive strike rate of 166.52, showcasing his evolving range and maturity as a batter.

Parag also had a brief taste of leadership last year when Samson was sidelined due to injury. He led the side in eight matches, managing two wins and six defeats as the Royals finished ninth. While the results did not tilt in their favour, Parag impressed individually, averaging 38.57 during that stretch, including a memorable 95 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.

Leadership reset with Kumar Sangakkara at the helm

IPL 2026 will also mark a significant shift off the field. With Rahul Dravid stepping away from the head coach role after the 2025 season, the Royals will enter a new chapter under Kumar Sangakkarawho takes charge as head coach.

The Parag-Sangakkara partnership is expected to blend youthful aggression with strategic experience. Sangakkara’s calm leadership style and tactical acumen could prove crucial in shaping Parag’s growth as captain.

Here’s how fans reacted: