‘I was not supposed to play today’ – Riyan Parag not completely fit but will play Eliminator

A Captain’s Grit at the Wankhede

In a high-stakes clash that decided the fate of their IPL 2026 campaign, Rajasthan Royals (RR) managed to secure the fourth and final playoff spot. However, the victory was underscored by a startling revelation from their captain, Riyan Parag. After leading his team to a 30-run victory over the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, Parag admitted, ‘I was not supposed to play today’ – Riyan Parag not completely fit but will play in the upcoming Eliminator regardless of his physical condition.

Overcoming Physical Limitations

Parag had previously missed the match against the Lucknow Super Giants due to a hamstring injury. Despite the clear risks involved, the captain returned to the field for the must-win game against Mumbai Indians. His presence was vital for the team’s morale and tactical direction. Although he contributed a quick 14 off 8 deliveries, spectators and observers noted that he was moving gingerly throughout the defense of their 205-run total.

When questioned about his status regarding the high-pressure Eliminator match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 27, Parag remained defiant and committed. His response was characteristically blunt: ‘Yeah, of course,’ he affirmed, signaling his intention to lead the side despite the injury concerns that have plagued his recent appearances.

Reflecting on a Rollercoaster Campaign

Rajasthan Royals endured a turbulent season, marked by a frustrating stretch where they lost three consecutive matches. Their qualification was only confirmed on the very last day of the league stage. Parag reflected on the campaign with a sense of pragmatism, acknowledging that the team had made the situation unnecessarily difficult for themselves.

‘We should have qualified way earlier,’ Parag remarked. ‘We left it a little too late, I think we left a lot on the table. We are finally picking up the slack after the recent slump. Hopefully, we learn from all our mistakes and put up a much better show in the playoffs.’

Tactical Boldness and Leadership

The win against Mumbai Indians was not just about grit; it was about tactical ingenuity. RR defended a target of 206 by outmaneuvering a strong MI batting lineup, including a late surge from Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya. Parag highlighted his decision-making process, which included promoting Jofra Archer to No. 7 and calling him back into the attack at a pivotal moment to dismiss Hardik Pandya.

‘I’ve taken a lot of brave calls this season,’ Parag stated. ‘That is how I like to lead. It is the same style I bring to the Assam side. It is not a gamble; it is about calculating the odds and trusting the process even when the pressure is at its peak.’

Praise for Rising Stars

Beyond his own physical struggles, Parag was quick to shift the spotlight to his teammates who turned the tide against Mumbai. He specifically lauded the performances of 19-year-old Yash Raj Punja and Brijesh Sharma. Punja, who has transitioned from a net bowler to the team’s primary spinner, impressed with figures of 2 for 44. Meanwhile, Brijesh Sharma provided a clinical performance, ending with 2 for 26.

‘I don’t usually praise them a lot so they don’t get all bloated,’ Parag joked, showing a softer side to his captaincy. ‘But after today, they deserve it. Brijesh has been consistent, and Punja’s journey is remarkable. I hope they can replicate this form for another game, and then another two games,’ he added, looking forward to the path toward the final. As Rajasthan Royals prepare for the Eliminator, the focus remains on whether their captain can manage his fitness to lead them through the final hurdles of the tournament.