IPL 2026: Potential Captains for Rajasthan Royals if Sanju Samson is Traded
IPL 2026 Trade Window Opens
The trade window for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has officially commenced, sparking discussions about significant player movements. One of the most talked-about possibilities is the transfer of Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Although no official confirmation has been made, fans are already speculating about who might take over the captaincy for RR if Samson departs.
Top Candidates to Succeed Sanju Samson as RR Captain
Here are three players who could potentially lead the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026.
Riyan Parag
Riyan Parag is a strong contender for the captaincy. Since joining the Rajasthan Royals in 2019, he has become an integral part of the team. During IPL 2025, he stepped in as captain while Samson was sidelined due to injury, leading the team in eight matches with a record of two wins and six losses. Despite this less-than-stellar performance, Parag has shown promising leadership qualities.
Additionally, he captains Assam in domestic cricket, giving him some experience in leadership roles. His youth and confidence could make him a suitable choice for the captaincy, as the team may look to nurture his potential.
Yashasvi Jaiswal
Another strong candidate is Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in remarkable form, amassing over 2100 runs for the Royals. Although he has yet to captain at any level, his enthusiasm and energy on the field are undeniable.
Having joined RR in 2020, Jaiswal is seen as a key player for the team's future. If the Royals are looking to make a bold move, they might consider him as a fresh face to lead the team into a new chapter after Samson.
Nitish Rana
Nitish Rana brings a wealth of experience to the table. He was signed by RR for the previous IPL season and has previously captained Kolkata Knight Riders. Additionally, he leads the Delhi team in domestic competitions. With a record of six wins in 14 IPL matches, his experience is notable.
Rana is known for his calm demeanor, strong game awareness, and good rapport with teammates. If RR seeks a reliable and experienced captain, he could be an excellent choice.