'Riyan's small innings was exactly what we needed': RR head coach Sangakkara lauds under-fire captain's 16-ball 29

UPDATED: Apr 29, 2026 10:17 AM IST

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag cheers for his team during their run chase against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026 match on April 28.

Story Highlights:

Riyan Parag hit 2 sixes, 2 fours in his 16-ball 29 in run chase.

Parag's 29 is highest score in the IPL 2026.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach Kumar Sangakkara praised Riyan Parag for his cameo in the successful run chase against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash on April 28. Parag registered his highest score of the season, a 16-ball 29. Sangakkara felt that the cameo was crucial to get momentum back to Royals’ side.

"Riyan's small innings was exactly what we needed to bring the momentum back our way," Sangakkara said in the post-match press conference.

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Parag has managed to score 117 runs from nine innings at an average of 14.62 and strike rate of 124.46.

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Half-centurion Ferreira, impact player Dube win it for Royals

Parag walked in to bat in the 10th over after Dhruv Jurel fell for a 20-ball 16. Parag took on the spinners, hitting Yuzvendra Chahal and Harpreet Brar. In the 14th over, he hit Chahal for a six and a four. But, he was caught at deep mid-wicket on the last ball of the over. He hit two fours and as many sixes during his stay at the crease.

When he departed Donovan Ferreira was still new to the crease, RR were 151/4 and they needed 72 runs from six overs. In the slog overs, Ferreira and impact player Shubham Dubey turned the tide. Ferreira contributed with a 26-ball 52 whereas Dubey scored 31 runs from just 12 deliveries. They shared an unbeaten 77-run partnership for the fifth wicket, leading RR over the line with four balls to spare.

Sangakkara praised Dubey as well for easing the pressure off Ferreira. He was sent ahead of Dasun Shanaka.

"Coming in as an impact sub is one of the hardest things. You don't know if you're playing, but mentally he was exceptionally skilful to stay focused and contribute in a tough situation," he said.

Royals brace for Starc challenge at home

RR overcame a rough patch to register their sixth win of the tournament. They are placed third on the points table. They will now head home and gear up to face a wounded Delhi Capitals (DC) who have suffered three defeats in a row. But, DC will receive a major boost with Mitchell Starc playing his first game of the season.