Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag Emerge as Frontrunners for Rajasthan Royals Captaincy
Ravindra Jadeja
All-Rounder
Following the high-profile trade of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings, the Rajasthan Royals face a crucial decision regarding their leadership for IPL 2026. Former India stars Robin Uthappa and Anil Kumble have weighed in on the debate, identifying Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag as the primary contenders for the captaincy role.
Jadeja, a new acquisition, brings prior IPL captaincy experience, having briefly led CSK in 2022. Riyan Parag, who stepped in as interim captain during IPL 2025 when Samson was unavailable, is also strongly considered. While young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was mentioned as a future leader, Uthappa believes he will need to wait, suggesting the immediate focus is on the experienced Jadeja or the homegrown Parag to lead the Royals' newly bolstered squad.
“The only question is leadership. My feeling is the captaincy will likely be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal might need to wait a bit longer.”
Robin Uthappa, Former India Batter
- Player
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Specialization
- All-Rounder
- Team
- CSK
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance
- Team
- Team Performance
Related Statistics
Most Wickets at MA Chidambaram Stadium
Bowling specialists with most career wickets taken at MA Chidambaram Stadium (bowlers/all-rounders only)
| Rank | Player | Team | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Rajasthan Royals | 37 wickets | |
#2 | Mumbai Indians | 24 wickets | |
#3 | Rajasthan Royals | 21 wickets | |
| #4 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 20 wickets | |
| #5 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 15 wickets |
What Do Fans Think?
See what cricket fans are saying about this in our Facebook community.
More on Ravindra Jadeja
Anil Kumble Backs Dhruv Jurel as Ideal Candidate for Rajasthan Royals Captaincy
When you look at this lineup, the captaincy will be the most decisive factor. If you want to replicate the kind of personality Sanju Samson brought to Rajasthan Royals, Dhruv Jurel is probably the closest match.
Batter
Dhruv Jurel’s Explosive Vijay Hazare Trophy Form Puts Him in India ODI Contention
Young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has made a compelling case for India's ODI squad with exceptional Vijay Hazare Trophy performances. His recent unbeaten 160 off 101 balls, alongside over 300 runs in three matches, puts him firmly in contention for the upcoming New Zealand series.
Batter
Jofra Archer Sidelined from Final Ashes Test Due to Side Strain
Jofra Archer, who suffered a side strain after the Adelaide Test.
Bowler
“The only question is leadership. My feeling is the captaincy will likely be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal might need to wait a bit longer.”
Robin Uthappa, Former India Batter
- Player
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Specialization
- All-Rounder
- Team
- CSK
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance
- Team
- Team Performance