Riyan Parag admits RR ‘left it a little too late’ after playoff qualification, makes honest injury confession

Riyan Parag was honest after RR defeated MI in their final league game to qualify for the playoffs.

Published on: May 24, 2026, 21:01:47 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag feels that his team should have qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs earlier, rather than leaving it for their final league game. Ahead of their final league game vs Mumbai Indians, RR needed a win to clinch the final playoff berth. A defeat would have seen them miss out on a spot.

RR defeated MI in their final league game, qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs. (PTI)

Jofra Archer proved to be the difference-maker, taking a three-wicket haul and contributing with the bat as RR won by 30 runs. When RR's batting order was crumbling in the first innings, he was promoted to no. 7 and justified the decision. His quickfire 15-ball 32 proved to be pivotal as RR got to 205/8 in 20 overs. Archer also smashed three sixes and a four.

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Then, when RR were defending a target of 206 runs, Archer once again rose to the occasion. First, he dismissed opener Rohit Sharma for a four-ball duck in the first over. Then he got the crucial wickets of Naman Dhir (6) and Hardik Pandya (34).

‘That’s how I like to lead': Riyan Parag

Speaking after the match, Parag said, "Obviously it's good when things go to plan. I know we've won the game, we've qualified, but a lot of areas that we can do better."

Explaining the decision to promote Archer higher up the order and sending Jadeja at No. 9, Parag said, "Wanted the set batter to play a little longer. We needed runs. It's a wicket where you can't have two players batting in the middle and going at a run a ball. Wanted one guy to take the initiative, take the risk. And the other guy could stay a little bit longer. Have taken a lot of brave calls actually this season. That's how I like to lead."

Archer's dismissal of Hardik was key, as he was forming a partnership with Suryakumar Yadav, and MI were trying to stage a fightback. "I thought, Hardik - there's only one guy who can get him out and that is Jofra. It's tough but all the credit to them. I don't usually praise them a lot so they don't gloat," he said.

Parag and Jadeja also returned to the playing XI in RR's final league game. "I'm definitely not fit. All of this was mental toughness. Jofra's fine, he's strong as a rock. Jaddu bhai has some niggles here and there. We should've qualified way earlier. Left it a little too late. Hopefully we learn from all of our games," he concluded.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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