With Sanju Samson joining CSK, Rajasthan Royals are considering Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal as captain

With Sanju Samson about to join in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the 2026 IPL season, in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are preparing for a major leadership transition. As the franchise gears up for a new era, two young Indian stars – Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal – have emerged as the leading contenders for the captain’s role.

The decision marks a pivotal moment for the Royals, who will look to rebuild their leadership core and maintain their competitive advantage following the departure of Samson, who captained the team for four seasons. Under a revamped coaching setup led by Kumar Sangakkara, RR is looking to nurture young leadership capable of leading the franchise into a new phase of growth.

Dhruv Jurel: The wicketkeeper-finisher favorite for Rajasthan Royals

According to multiple reports Dhruv Jurel has emerged as the frontrunner to take over the captaincy. A product of the Rajasthan Royals development system, the 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman is admired for his versatility, composure and tactical awareness on the field.

Jurel’s experience behind the stumps gives him a good perspective to read the game, allowing him to lead effectively in real time. His ability to finish innings under pressure and his growing maturity as a player make him a natural leader in the making.

Moreover, Jurel’s strong bond with Kumar Sangakkara, Director of Cricket at RR, who has guided him closely, adds extra strength to his candidature. Franchise insiders believe that Sangakkara’s guidance could play a decisive role in shaping Jurel into one of the next generation of IPL leaders.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The explosive opener with leadership potential

While Jurel is leading the race, Yashasvi Jaiswal is another serious contender for the captaincy. The dynamic left-handed opener has been one of Rajasthan’s most consistent performers in recent IPL seasons, known for his aggressive strokeplay and match-winning knocks at the top of the order.

Jaiswal’s leadership potential has been recognized within the RR set-up for some time now, with the franchise reportedly grooming him for a leadership role. During their stay in England for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, both Jaiswal and Jurel were advised to prepare for possible captaincy responsibilities.

Jaiswal’s understanding of the game, combined with his ability to instill confidence through performances, makes him a strong candidate to lead a young and evolving squad.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Rajasthan Royals request key CSK player to ensure success of Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja trade deal

Riyan Parag not in contention for RR captaincy

Although Riyan Parag briefly captained the team last season due to Samson’s injury, reports suggest that he will not be considered for the permanent captaincy role. While Parag remains a vital member of the Royals’ middle order, the franchise seems focused on entrusting leadership to Jurel or Jaiswal as part of its long-term strategy.

The upcoming captaincy decision will be crucial for the future direction of Rajasthan Royals as they look to regroup and strengthen their squad ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. With Samson’s move to CSK marking the end of an era, RR is looking to build a new leadership core that can combine tactical acumen with youthful energy.

Also READ: No MS Dhoni or Rishabh Pant as Abishek Porel names his all-time surprising IPL XI