Why is Riyan Parag not playing tonight's RR vs GT match of IPL 2026?

Riyan Parag is the captain of RR in IPL 2026.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Gujarat Titans (GT) are clashing in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The encounter is taking place at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Both RR and GT are among the favourite teams to bag a place in the playoffs. Out of 10 matches so far, they have won six and lost four each. While RR take the fourth spot in the points table with 12 points, GT are placed in the fifth place with an equal number of points.

Notably, RR captain Riyan Parag is not part of the match. In his absence, Yashasvi Jaiswal is leading the side. He won the toss and opted to field first. At the toss, he also revealed the reason behind Parag’s absence.

Why did Riyan Parag miss RR vs GT match of IPL 2026?

Notably, Parag is recovering from a hamstring injury, which he sustained in the last game. He is yet to attain match fitness, which is why he missed the game. Moreover, RR also added Shimron Hetmyer and Yash Raj Punja to the playing XI.

Speaking at the toss, Jaislwal said, “We are going to bowl first. I think the wicket is pretty good and we want to chase it. Riyan pulled his hamstring in the last game, so I feel he’ll be coming back soon. Shimron Hetmyer comes in and Yash Raj Punja comes in. That’s the two guys who are coming in. I’m really excited, looking forward to the game”.

In the previous game against the Delhi Capitals, Parag suffered issues while fielding in the second innings. He left the field with discomfort and was seen receiving treatment. He sat in the dugout and Jaiswal took the reins of the side.

Meanwhile, Parag has struggled to make a mark in IPL 2026. In 10 games, he has scored 207 runs at an average of 23.0 and a strike rate of 143.75, including one half-century.

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