'It was a suicidal move': Sunil Gavaskar tears into Riyan Parag’s captaincy after loss vs DC

Rajasthan Royals (RR) endured another tough loss in their campaign in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The Riyan Parag-led side failed to defend 194 runs in their clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday, May 18 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.

Sunil Gavaskar slams Riyan Parag's captaincy

After the game, RR skipper Riyan Parag faced criticism for giving the 18th over to Donovan Ferreira, where the South African leaked 16 runs, which changed the momentum of the game and DC eventually secured the win at the end.

In an interaction with JioHotstar, Sunil Gavaskar called the Riyan Parag's decision a "suicidal move" as the pitch was not offering any help to slow bowlers.

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"Handing the ball to Donovan Ferreira to bowl the 18th over was a suicidal move. You are bringing a slow bowler on a pitch offering him no help.

While speaking further, Gavaskar noted Ferreira got dismissed on a duck in the first innings, this must have had a negative impact on his confidence, so there was no need to give him an over where the game was at stake.

"He was just bowling in the slot. It was his first over of the match. He had also scored a golden duck with the bat. Sometimes you must look at where the luck is going that day," Gavaskar added.

Royals face Giants in must-win game

After the loss to DC, RR slipped to sixth place on the points table. They have six losses and as many wins from 12 games. Their net run rate (NRR) is equal to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). They have a quick turnaround, facing Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a home game on May 19.