Riyan Parag’s Start as Royals Captain Draws Praise From Rayudu and Finch

Public praise alongside two straight wins signals a smooth handover at Rajasthan Royals.

Overview

Rajasthan Royals moved to 2-0 under 24-year-old Riyan Parag with a six-run win over Gujarat Titans after posting 210 for 6 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu said the squad shows clear respect for Parag and noted the players look happy under his leadership.
Ex-Australia captain Aaron Finch said the lack of an overshadowing senior contender has eased Parag’s transition and downplayed Yashasvi Jaiswal as a rival for the role.
Parag’s own returns have been modest so far with 14 not out and 8, and he claimed Kumar Kushagra’s wicket, while opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has carried the scoring load.
The captaincy passed to Parag after Sanju Samson’s move to Chennai Super Kings as Rajasthan sought a reset following a ninth-place finish in the 2025 season.