India, March 30 -- Viewers can expect another high-octane season of the Indian Premier League, with several defining calls already made off the field. Rajasthan Royals' decision to appoint Riyan Parag as captain, ahead of multiple contenders, including Ravindra Jadeja, has certainly raised eyebrows. The call, however, was far from straightforward, given the experience within the squad.

Sanju Samson's departure last year meant moving on from their longest-serving and most successful captain, who led the side to 33 wins in 66 matches. His recent exploits with India, including a key role in their T20 World Cup 2026 triumph, have only amplified the weight of that transition. It has, in turn, heightened the pressure on both the management and...