As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season approaches, Rajasthan Royals (RR) find themselves in a unique position following one of the most significant trade windows in the league’s history. After moving their long-time captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-profile deal, the Royals have overhauled their roster, bringing in veteran experience and world-class all-round talent.
Former India batter Robin Uthappa has highlighted that while the squad’s depth is now undeniable, the ultimate success of the Jaipur-based franchise will hinge on how they navigate their current leadership vacuum. With the mini-auction concluded and the team dynamic shifted, RR are the only side entering the new year without a confirmed captain, making their decision the most anticipated announcement of the preseason.
Robin Uthappa on Rajasthan Royals’ new-look bowling arsenal
Speaking on JioStar, Uthappa praised the tactical flexibility Rajasthan has gained through recent acquisitions, specifically pointing to their newfound depth in the bowling department. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran via trade, alongside the auction purchase of leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi for ₹7.20 crore, has transformed RR into a defensive powerhouse.
“The advantage Rajasthan Royals have is the fact that they have 10 fast bowlers, offering a lot of options. If they bowl in the right areas at SMS Stadium, Jaipur, they can be very successful. With spinners like Bishnoi and Jadeja, support from Shimron Hetmyer and Donovan Ferreira, and depth in the batting order with Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag, they now have a well-rounded team.” Uthappa said.
IPL 2026: Uthappa picks two contenders for Rajasthan Royals’ captaincy
The most critical talking point for the Royals remains the vacancy at the top. Uthappa believes the choice effectively comes down to a battle between veteran experience and homegrown potential. While many fans have called for Yashasvi Jaiswal to be handed the reins, Uthappa suggests the young opener might need to wait a bit longer, placing Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag as the primary frontrunners.
Jadeja returns to the Royals 17 years after his 2008 debut under Shane Warne, and his acceptance of a salary cut (from ₹18 crore to ₹14.20 crore) to facilitate the trade has led to heavy speculation that the captaincy was part of the negotiation. On the other hand, Parag has a strong internal claim, having captained the side in eight matches during the 2025 season while Samson was sidelined with injury.
“The only question is leadership. My feeling is the captaincy will likely be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal might need to wait a bit longer” Uthappa concluded.
