IPL 2025: Riyan Parag Confident as Stand-In Captain Ahead of KKR Clash

Youngster says support from Sanju Samson and coaching staff has ensured a smooth leadership transition for Rajasthan Royals

Guwahati, March 26: Rajasthan Royals’ interim skipper Riyan Parag is embracing the leadership mantle with composure and optimism as the team prepares to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. With regular captain Sanju Samson temporarily unavailable, Parag stated that the leadership transition has been seamless, thanks to solid backing from the senior players and coaching staff.

“Not at all,” Parag responded when asked if he faced any challenges leading the squad. “Everyone is a professional here. Sanju bhai has been extremely supportive, and Rahul Dravid has also guided me really well. So far, there’s been no trouble in aligning the team or managing communication.”

Rajasthan Royals are coming off a high-scoring defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), where despite scoring 242/6, they lost by 44 runs in response to SRH’s record-breaking 286/6. However, Parag focused on the positives—especially the performance of the middle order.

“I feel the middle order is always the backbone of any batting lineup,” he said. “For them to step up like they did, regardless of the result, is a big plus. We won’t be chasing 280 every game. In matches where the target is 180, 150, or even 140, they’ll be crucial.”

Parag added that the spirited batting display in the last game will serve as a confidence booster as Rajasthan Royals look to bounce back in the tournament.

“The way the middle order played is a huge positive. Hopefully, they can carry that momentum forward into the next games.”

With RR still searching for their first win of IPL 2025, the upcoming clash against KKR offers a crucial chance to turn things around.

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Tags: Riyan Parag, Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson, IPL 2025, RR vs KKR, Rahul Dravid, Barsapara Stadium, SRH vs RR, middle order batting, Riyan Parag captaincy

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