IPL 2026: no Yashasvi Jaiswal! Robin Uthappa names his two picks for Rajasthan Royals captaincy
Like the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 the season is approaching, Rajasthan Royals (RR) find themselves in a unique position after one of the most important trade windows in league history. After displacing their long-time captain Sanju Samson has Chennai Super Kings (CSK) In a high-profile deal, the Royals overhauled their roster, adding veteran experience and world-class all-around talent.
Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa pointed out that while the squad’s depth is now undeniable, the Jaipur-based franchise’s ultimate success will depend on how they overcome their current leadership void. With the mini-auction over and the team dynamic changing, RR are the only team entering the new year without a confirmed captain, making their decision the most anticipated announcement of the preseason.
Robin Uthappa on Rajasthan Royals’ new bowling arsenal
Speaking on JioStar, Uthappa praised the tactical flexibility that Rajasthan have gained through recent acquisitions, specifically highlighting their new 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, transformed RR into a defensive powerhouse.
“The advantage for Rajasthan Royals is the fact that they have 10 fast bowlers, providing plenty of options. If they bowl in the right areas at SMS Stadium in Jaipur, they can have a lot of success. 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-balanced team.” Uthappa said.
ALSO READ: Rising Indian star Vaishnavi Sharma reveals her top 3 favorite male and female cricketers
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 really comes down to a battle between veteran experience and local potential. While many fans have called for Yashasvi Jaiswal to be handed the reins, Uthappa suggests the young opener may have to wait a little longer, placing Ravindra Jadeja And Riyan Parag as the main precursors.
Jadeja returns to the Royals 17 years after his debut in 2008 under Shane Warne, and his acceptance of a salary cut (from ₹18 crore to ₹14.20 crore) to facilitate the trade led to strong speculation that the captaincy was part of the negotiation. On the other hand, Parag has strong internal claims, having captained the team in eight matches during the 2025 season while Samson was absent due to injury.
“The only question is leadership. My feeling is that the captaincy will probably be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal may have to wait a little longer.” Uthappa concludes.
ALSO READ: Babar Azam equals Jos Buttler’s prestigious T20 record at BBL|15
