Rajasthan Royals face scrutiny over IPL 2026 controversies and Parag's form

Rajasthan Royals have faced disciplinary issues in IPL 2026 while their captain Riyan Parag struggles with batting form.

Recent controversies impact team image Two incidents have cast a shadow over Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 so far. Their captain Riyan Parag was observed vaping in the dressing room during the game against Punjab Kings this week, leading to a fine of 25% of his match fee and one demerit point. Earlier in April, the BCCI's anti-corruption unit fined the team's manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder INR 1 lakh after he used his mobile phone in the dugout during the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10 in Guwahati. ## Sangakkara acknowledges negative reflection Kumar Sangakkara expressed concern over these controversies, stating they do not present a positive image of the team. Speaking in Jaipur on Thursday, a day before their match against Delhi Capitals, he said, 'I think it is, of course, a reflection that is not positive on the team, a controversy of any kind.' Sangakkara emphasized that both issues have been addressed by the BCCI and the franchise. ## Team values and player responsibility emphasized Sangakkara highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive and healthy team culture, saying the franchise adheres to specific values. He reminded players to act responsibly toward the franchise, its culture, and its values. 'We have our own values we adhere to. And the constant reminder to the players is to make sure they're responsible to the franchise and to our culture and our values,' he noted. ## Parag's batting struggles raise questions Questions about Riyan Parag's batting performance have grown louder with nine matches played out of 14 in the league. He has scored just 117 runs in nine innings, averaging 14.62 with a strike rate of 124.46. His highest score this season, 29, came against Punjab Kings, where he hit two fours and two sixes in a 16-ball knock to help chase 223. Despite his struggles, the team won the match due to a fourth-wicket partnership between Donovan Ferreira and Shubham Dubey. ## Sangakkara praises Parag's leadership Sangakkara commended Parag's captaincy, calling his recent performance impactful. 'I think he's done really well as a captain,' he said. 'And also in the last game, his little innings is what really shifted the momentum our way.' Sangakkara advised Parag to enjoy his batting and separate it from his captaincy responsibilities. 'You have to bat like Riyan Parag, the batter, and you're only captaining when you're fielding.' ## Team's current standing and upcoming match Rajasthan Royals currently occupy the fourth position on the points table with six wins from nine games this season. Their next match is against Delhi Capitals at home in Jaipur on May 1.