Jadeja will play at number-4! Suspense on replacing Sam Curran, Suresh Raina chose RR’s predictable playing XI for IPL 2026

By Samira Vishwas On Mar 18, 2026

Raina has selected young sensations Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal to open in this probable playing eleven of Rajasthan Royals recently selected. Suryavanshi is already in the headlines after his brilliant performance in the Under-19 World Cup 2026 and his pairing with Jaiswal can provide an aggressive start in the powerplay. The combination of both left-handers can put pressure on the opposing teams.

Raina has given place to captain Riyan Parag at number-3. He believes that Parag can give balance to the team as an attacking batsman, especially when the top two batsmen are left-handers. The biggest surprise was seen at number 4, where Raina has placed Ravindra Jadeja. Bringing Jadeja, who usually bats in the lower order, to this position could be a strategic decision.

In the middle order, Shimron Hetmyer has been given the role of finisher at number 5, who is known for his explosive batting. Whereas Dhruv Jurel has been included in the team at number-6 with the responsibility of wicketkeeper, who can handle the innings if needed.

The most interesting aspect of this playing eleven is the suspense created regarding the place of Sam Curran. Raina has indicated that depending on the team combination, Donovan Ferreira may get a chance in place of Curran. Although leaving out an all-rounder like Curran will not be an easy decision, considering the slots for foreign players, it could be a strategic call.

In bowling, Raina has given priority to pace attack. Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma have been included along with Jofra Archer and Nandre Berger. Raina has selected Indian leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi as an impact player. Bishnoi has the ability to take wickets in the middle overs.

Raina’s predicted playing XI of Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026:

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ryan Parag, Ravindra Jadeja, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Sam Curran/Donovan Ferreira, Joffra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Nandre Berger, Sandeep Sharma.