Rajasthan Royals (RR) were knocked out of the race for the Indian Premier League (IPL) finals after their 7-wicket loss to the Gujarat Titans. The second qualifier, which was played on Friday in Mullanpur, saw over 400 runs being scored with the Titans coming out on top. Skipper Riyan Parag caught everyone’s attention during the post-match interaction, where he said that his side “wasn’t supposed to qualify.”
Speaking to the broadcasters, the 24-year-old was asked to shed light on his side’s performances this season. To which he said, “Good season with many positives, I feel that we weren’t supposed to qualify (for the playoffs). Team had a lot of fresh faces, having played less cricket and a lack of experience for some players, but the boys have shown tremendous character to reach where we have this season.”
This statement, though, didn’t sit well with Rajasthan coach Kumar Sangakkara during the press conference after the GT vs RR game. Former Sri Lankan legend was asked to give his views on Parag’s statement, to which he said that maybe the franchise wasn’t expected to qualify before, but since 2022, the thought process had changed.
Lanka’s former batting great also added that the team wanted to get match-winners in the side, who were ready to play right from the word go. Barring Vaibhav Sooryavanshiwho was inexperienced, the coach said the youngster was blooded into the playing XI because the management felt the player was ready.
Sangakkara gives his take on Riyan Parag’s debut season as captain
During the press conference, the 48-year-old was asked about Riyan’s first full IPL season as the captain. It is to be noted that the youngster had led the Royals a few times during the 2025 season as well. The2011 World Cup finalist said that he was happy with the way the player led the side this season, which was excellent.
He also said that Parag will grow and learn just like others and expected the team to come back stronger for the 2027 campaign. Kumar also added that hard work and good cricket can make things happen on the field.
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