Riyan Parag is set to be named the next Rajasthan Royals captain ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, ESPNcricinfo reported Friday, February 13, 2026. The 24-year-old reportedly impressed head coach Kumar Sangakkara during interviews with potential candidates. An official announcement on the appointment has not yet been made.

Reports said that other candidates, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravindra Jadeja, were also considered for the leadership role. Jaiswal had publicly expressed his interest in the captaincy earlier, while Jadeja, a newly acquired senior all-rounder, was widely seen as a strong contender due to his experience and leadership record with Chennai Super Kings. Ultimately, the Royals opted to back Parag.

Parag has prior leadership experience with the Royals. He captained the team in eight matches in 2025 when Samson faced fitness issues, averaging 38.57 with a career-best 95 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Rajasthan won two of those eight matches under his captaincy.

Samson’s departure ends an 11-year stint with the Royals, during which he led the team to multiple playoff appearances, including a run to the final in 2022. Parag will replace Sanju Samson, who was traded to Chennai Super Kings after 11 seasons with the Royals.