The stage is set for the action-packed IPL 2026 Eliminator clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. While anticipation is sky-high for what promises to be another seasonal thriller, former Indian and CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath has stirred the pot by labeling RR's skipper, Riyan Parag, as the team's weak link heading into this must-win encounter.
RR secured their playoff berth for the fourth time in franchise history following a commanding 30-run victory over the Mumbai Indians in their final group-stage match. However, Badrinath's critique stems from Parag's underwhelming batting performance this season. As a mainstay and the leader of the squad, the 24-year-old middle-order batter has failed to put up eye-catching numbers, aggregating just 272 runs across 12 innings. With an average of 24.72, a strike rate of 152.80, and only two half-centuries to his name in the 2026 season, his output has raised legitimate concerns.
Riyan Parag is struggling with fitness and form: Subramaniam Badrinath
Compounding his struggles on the field are persistent fitness issues. Parag recently missed a couple of matches due to a hamstring injury and appeared to be in visible discomfort while fielding during the final league game against Mumbai, a match where he contributed just 14 runs with the bat. Despite these below-par stats and lingering physical setbacks, Badrinath isn't counting the skipper out entirely. Echoing a timeless sports adage, the former batter warned not to completely rule him out, noting that teams should always "beware of the injured player" when it comes to big-match situations.
“Honestly, he is the weak link for the Rajasthan Royals. His batting form has been low throughout the season. And he is struggling with an injury in the last two games, which is clearly visible. He is unable to bend down on the field. So he is struggling with fitness and form. But he could come good at the right time. Beware of the injured player in big matches is a famous saying in sports,” Badrinath said on Star Sports.
Jaiswal is also getting judged by Suryavanshi's standards: Badrinath
Alongside the skipper's struggles, opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is another key player whose recent form has fallen short of expectations. Although he launched the season on a remarkably strong note, he has been unable to sustain that explosive momentum heading into the crucial latter stages of the tournament.
"Jaiswal form has been worrisome only if you compare it to other top players. But he has given decent performances, and it's not his worst season. But because Vaibhav Suryavanshi is at the other end, Jaiswal is also getting judged by Suryavanshi's standards. In any other country, Jaiswal would be in the national T20I team. It's only because he's in India that he isn't getting opportunities. But he can be expected to deliver come the big game," Badrinath added.