New Delhi, March 23: Former Indian cricket team opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth has raised concerns regarding the Rajasthan Royals’ decision to appoint Riyan Parag as captain for IPL 2026. Srikkanth remarked that Parag is treated like royalty within the franchise.
Srikkanth expressed his surprise on his YouTube channel, stating, “The decision to make Riyan Parag captain is astonishing, especially when there are more experienced players in the team. While the franchise can make such decisions, it seems Parag is being given undue importance despite his inconsistent performances. He is treated like a king there.”
He noted, “Last season was not great for Parag, but he had an impressive season the year before. Yet, everyone knows the reasons behind his captaincy appointment.”
Parag was named captain after Sanju Samson was traded to Chennai Super Kings for a hefty sum of ₹18 crores. This trade also included the arrival of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to the Royals ahead of the mini-auction last December.
Srikkanth further questioned why other potential captaincy candidates, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, and the recently added Jadeja, were overlooked.
Last year, when Samson was injured, Parag captained the Royals in eight matches but managed only two victories. Despite this, the franchise has continued to support him as their long-term captain. In the previous season, Parag scored 393 runs at an impressive strike rate of 166.52, making history as the first player in IPL to hit six consecutive sixes in a single innings against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025.
Regarding the upcoming season, Srikkanth commented, “The opening pair of Jaiswal and Suryavanshi is the team’s biggest strength. They have the ability to win matches on their own. The team is decent and capable of defeating larger teams, but it lacks the consistency and depth required to be a championship-winning side. Therefore, their chances of reaching the playoffs are not guaranteed. This is not a championship team.”
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment