Rajasthan Royals appointed Rian Parag as the new full-time captain for IPL 2026 season. Parag was recently named the 7th captain in franchise history, ushering in a youth-focused era following a major trade deal for the longtime leader. Sanju Samson go through Chennai Super Kings.
RR grabbed the headlines by declaring Parag as the leader for the 2026 campaign. Known for their ‘money ball’ strategy, the Kings are banking on the 24-year-old all-rounder to revive a bottom-of-the-table squad in 2025. With a change in the coaching staff Rahul Dravid‘s departure and acquisition of superstars Ravindra Jadeja and Sam CurranThe appointment of Parag represents a bold change in the franchise’s identity.
List of all Rajasthan Royals captains so far
(1) Shane Warne (2008-2011)
The late, great Australian legend Shane Warne He was the architect of the royal family’s DNA. Appointed as captain-coach in his first season in 2008, Warne led a group of ‘unknowns’ to win the fairytale title against all odds. He was the captain of the team for four seasons 56 matchessecurity 31 wins. His ability to instill confidence in young homegrown players created a legacy that remains the heartbeat of the franchise to this day.
(2) Rahul Dravid (2012-2013)
Rahul Dravid He took over the mantle in 2012 and brought a sense of calm and tactical excellence to the squad. Statistically, he remains one of the most efficient RR captains with a 57.50% win rate. Under his leadership, the Royals reached the play-offs in 2013 and finished second in the Champions League T20. Dravid led the team 40 matchesthe winner 23before moving into a mentoring role shaping the team’s future stars.
(3) Shane Watson (2014-2015)
Heavy blow followed by Dravid’s retirement Shane Watson he was promoted to the rank of captain. A longtime loyalist, Watson led the team 21 matchessecurity 7 wins. Although his captaincy was shorter than his peers, he successfully guided the Royals to the playoffs in 2015, keeping the team in contention before the franchise faced a two-year hiatus from the league.
(4) Ajinkya Rahane (2018-2019)
After the Kings return in 2018, Ajinkya Rahane was chosen to lead the comeback. His tenure was defined by a quiet, gritty tenacity as he led the team to the playoffs in his first year. Rahane was captain RR 24 matchesthe winner 9. His ‘true king’ spirit was praised by his teammates, although a dip in team form in mid-2019 eventually led to a change in management in favor of a more aggressive tactical approach.
(5) Steve Smith (2014-2020)
Steve Smith Served as captain in several phases, initially starting as caretaker leader for Watson and Rahane, before becoming full-time captain in 2020. 27 matchesSmith secured 15 winsmaintain a high winning percentage 55.55%. Although highly regarded for his fielding and strategic mind, the team’s last-place finish in 2020 prompted the franchise to look at a younger, long-term Indian leader.
(6) Sanju Samson (2021-2025)
Sanju Samson He is the most successful captain in the history of RR in terms of total wins. Samson, who led the team for five seasons, set a record 67 matchesaccumulated 33 wins and surpassed Shane Warne’s long-standing record in 2025. His greatest achievement was leading the Royals to the Finals in 2022. After 11 seasons and an emotional tenure, Samson’s trade to CSK in 2026 marked the end of the most prolific leadership period in Jaipur’s history.
(7) Riyan Paraq (Stand-in/Temporary 2025)
In the 2025 season, Rian Parag He got his first taste of leadership when he filled in for the injured Sanju Samson 8 matches. The team struggled during this period, but only won 2 gamesParag improved his individual performance as he averaged 38.57 with the club. His ability to mature under pressure and gain a deep understanding of the team’s culture during this difficult interim stint served as an “audition” for the permanent role.
(8) Riyan Paraq (2026-present)
It was officially appointed on February 13, 2026. Rian Parag He becomes the 8th captain of the Rajasthan Royals team. At 24, he is one of the league’s youngest full-time captains. With 1,566 runs for the franchise and a 573-run season in 2024 already under his belt, Parag is now tasked with integrating new veterans like Ravindra Jadeja into a youth-heavy system. The Royals management finally had full faith in him to bring the second IPL trophy to the Pink City.
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