Former Indian batter Ambati Rayudu has given a stern warning to Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag after the inaugural champions suffered a 57-run loss against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Hyderabad on Monday.

Rayudu said Parag’s dismal form is a cause of concern for the Royals. The RR skipper was dismissed after scoring four runs off six balls after he edged a wide half volley to first slip. 

Parag has scored 49 runs in five matches at an average of 12.25 and a strike rate of 136.11 in IPL 2026 and hasn’t been consistent for the franchise.

Ambati Rayudu said on ESPN Cricinfo, “Worrying factor is their captain. He is not among the runs. He has to get a good knock under his belt to get that confidence going. Him Hetmyer, Ferreira and Jaddu, they need to be in very good nick and headspace because this team is at least going to make the playoffs. From there to win the title, you really need your middle and lower middle order to be at their best. Otherwise, a game like this can cost you the IPL.”

The former CSK batter said Parag should not overthink about his current form and backed him to bounce back.

He added, “Sometimes, being young and being captain, you tend to overdose yourself with a lot of things around the game and sometimes forget to focus on just batting when you are batting. I am sure he will come back to his best space as a captain. He has the game to do it and idon’t feel he should overthink. The team is doing well and he has the benefit of time in terms of matches. But, he needs to take a little bit of time.”

Parag would want to lead from the front and deliver the goods for the team. Rajasthan Royals will next take on Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday.