IPL 2026: ‘Zero impact’- Ex-India captain roasts Riyan Parag, drags Rahane into ‘worst batter’ debate
Former captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has sharply criticized Riyan Parag's batting form in the IPL, questioning his impact and comparing him unfavorably to Ajinkya Rahane. Srikkanth also believes Mumbai Indians are poised for a playoff surge, while dismissing Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants' chances. He favors Sunrisers Hyderabad over Delhi Capitals, citing a batting concern.
Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has launched a scathing attack on Riyan Parag, criticising the Rajasthan Royals skipper for his disappointing returns with the bat in the ongoing IPL season. Despite Rajasthan Royals holding on to a top-four spot with four wins in six matches, concerns around Parag’s form have continued to grow. The right-hander has struggled to make meaningful contributions, particularly in crunch situations, and has failed to guide the side during difficult phases.
With the Royals slipping to back-to-back defeats, their over-reliance on the top order — Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal — along with No. 3 Dhruv Jurel has become increasingly evident, exposing a fragile middle order. Srikkanth did not hold back in his assessment, openly mocking Parag’s repeated failures and questioning his overall impact this season.
In a sharp remark, he even brought Ajinkya Rahane into the conversation, suggesting both batters are competing for the unwanted distinction of being the poorest performer. "Parag, as usual, is fit only for his stylish walks after doing nothing with bat and ball. There is a competition between him and Rahane as to who's the worst batter.
Parag did well one season, and that's it," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. Rahane, in comparison, has managed 152 runs from seven matches at a strike rate of 144. 76, while Parag’s struggles are reflected in his tally of just 61 runs at a strike rate of 122.