Aakash Chopra backs Yashasvi Jaiswal to lead Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has put his weight behind Yashasvi Jaiswal to lead the Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming season of IPL 2026. According to reports, veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is all set to be traded to RR in exchange for Sanju Samson, and he could also be a potential candidate for the leadership.

However, Jadeja had failed to lead CSK with aplomb when he was given the leadership onus. Meanwhile, Riyan Parag had led the inaugural champions for the majority of IPL 2025 as Samson was injured.

On the other hand, Jaiswal had scored 559 runs in 14 matches of the previous season and he was the franchise’s top run-getter.

“I think Yashasvi Jaiswal will lead them. I feel he should have spoken with the franchise that he wants to stay, but he also wants to be the leader. Given the stage he is in his career, I think captaincy matters. So they should make him the captain,” Chopra said during a conversation on ‘2 Sloggers’ YouTube channel.

The renowned commentator recalled that he had predicted that CSK could have traded Jadeja with Dhruv Jurel from RR.

“I had told that CSK should release Jadeja midway through the IPL last year. I looked at Rajasthan and said they can trade him with Dhruv Jurel. I did not know that Sanju was an option back then but I thought Jurel was a possible option. So I suggested it at that point of time,” he stated.

Meanwhile, it was also reported that Sanju Samson wanted to part ways with Rajasthan Royals, and Chopra said nothing can be done in such a scenario.

“There were rumors that Sanju did not want to stay at RR for a long time. Everyone will want to keep him. It makes no sense that you leave your captain who has done well, is doing well for India as well, and has been with you for a long time. But ultimately as a franchise you need to see that if it is a forced relationship, then it cannot last for long. How long will you drag it? If one party has decided that they want to go, then no one can stop them,” he said.

The former Delhi cricketer questioned RR for roping in Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana.

“RR’s strategy last year was flawed because they had two overseas spinners in the IPL, although they are from the subcontinent. Both have had middling performances. So now they have an opportunity to right that wrong. You cannot foresee form. But names on paper, they look like a very good team now.”

The deadline to release the retention list is November 15.