In a move that marks a new direction for the franchise, Rian Parag appointed captain Rajasthan Royals Ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The decision is made after that Sanju Samson completed a high-profile transition Chennai Super KingsEnded his long leadership tenure in Jaipur.
The announcement sparked widespread reactions on social media platforms, with fans expressing everything from excitement and pride to skepticism and concern. The message for the royal family is clear: the future will be built around youth, sustainability and faith in local talent.
From Teenage Prodigy to Franchise Leader: Riyan Parag’s Journey
Parag’s journey with the Royals began in 2019 when he made his debut as one of the youngest players in the tournament. After seven seasons, he enters the captaincy role having appeared in 84 IPL matches and amassed 1,566 runs at a healthy strike rate of 141.84.
His breakthrough campaign came in 2024, when he amassed 573 runs at a strike rate of 149.21 and transformed himself from a promising finisher to a reliable top-order force. Despite his aggregate falling to 393 runs last season, he maintained an explosive strike rate of 166.52, showing his developing range and maturity as a batter.
Parag also got a brief taste of leadership last year when Samson was ruled out due to injury. He led the side in eight matches with two wins and six losses as the Kings finished in 9th place. Although the results did not swing in their favour, Parag made an individual impression, averaging 38.57 during this period, including an unforgettable 95. Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.
The leadership was rebuilt with Kumar Sangakkara
IPL 2026 will also mark a significant change from the field. with Rahul Dravid After the 2025 season, he will step down as head coach and enter a new page under the Royals club. Kumar Sangakkarawho took over as head coach.
The Parag-Sangakkara partnership is expected to combine youthful aggression with strategic experience. Sangakkara’s calm leadership style and tactical prowess could be crucial in shaping Parag’s growth as a captain.
Also READ: Delhi Capitals have roped in the England legend as their assistant coach ahead of IPL 2026
Here’s how the fans reacted:
Get ready to lead the भैव रण in pink 🩷@rajasthanroyals fans welcome your captain Riyan Paraq 👏#TATAIPL | @ParagRiyan pic.twitter.com/eTUnc4rWn1
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) February 13, 2026
Get ready to lead the भैव रण in pink 🩷
Rajasthan Royals have appointed Riyan Parag as their new captain 👏
A new chapter. A bold vision. The future begins now. 💗#TATAIPL | #ParaqRiyan | #IPL2026 pic.twitter.com/EQZzwVGIhY
— Arshi (@imArshit) February 13, 2026
Well go captain riyan parag 💗🔒 be yourself and you need 2024 season with the bat ✌🏻
See you in mid-March 🔪pic.twitter.com/AOTgoW5OCM— . (@kadaipaneer_) February 13, 2026
Ryan Parag appointed captain of Rajasthan Royal for IPL 2026.#IPL2026pic.twitter.com/AaWyXjoyEI
— Kashif (@KashifNdmCric) February 13, 2026
RCB fan Riyan Parag is now RR Captain 👏 pic.twitter.com/4dvd7OkG6K
— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) February 13, 2026
Rajasthan Royals have announced Riyan Parag as their new #IPL captainpic.twitter.com/zMiDYlgczI
— 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐁𝐘 (@thomas__huji) February 13, 2026
THE RIYAN PARAG ERA IS HERE. 🔥🩷
Rajasthan Royals have appointed Riyan Parag as their new captain ✌🏼#teamindia #t20worldcup #bharatarmy #coti🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/kvv1CZAfvR
– Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) February 13, 2026
🚨 NEW RR CAPTAIN PARAG. 🚨
– Riyan Parag will be named as the new captain of Rajasthan Royals in IPL. (Espncricinfo). pic.twitter.com/mi2y7MtfwG
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 13, 2026
🚨 MEET THE NEW CAPTAIN OF RAJASTHAN ROYALS 🚨
– Riyan Parag has been selected as the new captain of Rajasthan Royals 🩷
2026 = Riyan Parag
2021-25 = Sanju Samson
2019-20 = Smith
2018-19 = Ajinkya
2014-15 = Smith
2012-13 = Rahul Dravid
2008-11 = Shane Warne pic.twitter.com/K0UXmxmPB1— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) February 13, 2026
Riyaan Parag – captain @rajasthanroyals pic.twitter.com/YiV5E9QTOI
— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) February 13, 2026
Riyan is a perfect choice for RR captain as he remains very calm.
I look forward to him leading the team with the same fire and skill as Ricky Ponting.
Good luck @ParagRiyan https://t.co/QxEgnpv06R— Hitman 🗿 (@Hitman_views) February 13, 2026
Captain Riyan Parag.. sounds unreal.
Assam’s son leads the IPL franchise.Another proof that big dreams can rise from anywhere. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/q2zwslP88d
— 𝐒 𝐰 __ 𝐫 __˚.✦ (@SwaraMSDian) February 13, 2026
