Former India batsman Robin Uthappa has highlighted that while the depth of the squad is now undeniable, the Jaipur-based franchise’s ultimate success will depend on how they navigate their current leadership vacuum. Now that the mini-auction has ended and the team dynamics have changed, 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 bowling arsenal
Speaking on JioStar, Uthappa praised the tactical flexibility that Rajasthan has acquired through recent acquisitions, specifically pointing to their new depth in the bowling department. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran via trade, besides the auction purchase of leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi for ₹7.20 crore, has transformed RR into a defensive powerhouse.
“The advantage of Rajasthan Royals is the fact that they have 10 fast bowlers, which gives them 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.” said Uthappa.
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IPL 2026: Uthappa picks two contenders for the captaincy of Rajasthan Royals
The most critical talking point for the Royals remains the vacancy at the top. Uthappa believes the choice actually comes down to a battle between veteran experience and homegrown potential. While many fans have asked for that Yashasvi Jaiswal To take the reins, Uthappa suggests that the young opener may have to wait a little longer before posting Ravindra Jadeja And Riyan Parag as the main frontrunners.
Jadeja returns to the Royals seventeen years after his debut with the club in 2008 Shane Warne, and his acceptance of a salary cut (from ₹18 crore to ₹14.20 crore) to facilitate trade has led to intense speculation that the captain was part of the negotiations. On the other hand, Parag has a strong internal claim, having captained eight games during the 2025 season while Samson was sidelined through injury.
“The only question is leadership. I feel that the captaincy will probably be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal may have to wait a little longer.” Uthappa concluded.
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