Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly anticipated to announce a brand new chief in IPL 2026, with Sanju Samson unlikely to proceed as captain. Former Group India captain Rahul Dravid just lately resigned as head coach, and both Riyan Parag or Yashasvi Jaiswal is about to take cost of the inaugural IPL Champions.
Samson had reportedly proven curiosity in leaving the Royals forward of the 2026 public sale, with Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) rising as a potential vacation spot. Rahul Dravid’s second stint with the Royals ended abruptly after only one season in 2025. There’s nonetheless uncertainty round Samson’s future as captain.
Rahul Dravid Exits and Sanju Samson’s Unsure Future
In accordance with a report by RevSportz, Rahul Dravid parted methods with Rajasthan Royals after disagreements with the administration over cricketing choices. The franchise had supplied him a “broader position,” which he declined.
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Sanju Samson’s ties with the Royals have weakened after he reportedly requested a launch following IPL 2025. The wicketkeeper-batsman was approached by the Chennai Tremendous Kings for a possible commerce.
Notably, the Tremendous Kings dismissed talks round a swap deal involving Shivam Dube or Ravindra Jadeja, and the five-time champions have since cooled their curiosity in Samson.
Rajasthan Royals Face Huge Name on Sanju Samson’s Future
Sanju Samson has been with the Rajasthan Royals since 2013. He was appointed captain in 2021 and led the staff to the ultimate the next yr. The batter was retained for ₹18 crore on the 2025 mega public sale.
Franchise proprietor Manoj Badale will determine whether or not Samson stays for 2 extra seasons, is traded earlier than the following marketing campaign, or re-enters the public sale pool. He may also take a name on the captaincy situation.
Samson struggled with accidents in 2025, lacking 5 matches and beginning a number of others as an Affect Sub. Riyan Parag stepped in as captain throughout his absence, however the Royals endured a poor season, ending ninth with solely 4 wins.
With the staff lacking the playoffs in two of the final three seasons, hypothesis is mounting that the Royals might hand over the captaincy to Parag heading into subsequent yr.
Riyan Parag or Yashasvi Jaiswal Set to Take Over from Sanju Samson
The report added that Sanju Samson is unlikely to proceed as captain even when he stays with the franchise. There are differing opinions throughout the camp concerning the skipper’s successor.
One faction is backing Riyan Parag to take cost, whereas one other group feels Yashasvi Jaiswal needs to be handed the accountability. The Royals’ administration, nonetheless, has “come down strongly” on leaks, conserving any resolution beneath wraps.
“There’s a faculty of thought that even when Samson stays put with the franchise, he may not proceed as captain, for some bridges have been burned. Inside the Royals set-up, Parag has his backers to take over the reins,” the report learn.
“One other group is in favour of handing over the accountability to Yashasvi Jaiswal. Franchise individuals are tight-lipped in the intervening time, scared of penalties for any leaks. It’s learnt that the administration has “come down strongly” on them.”
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