Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals squad ahead of IPL 2025, marking his return after undergoing finger surgery last month. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain and Indian wicketkeeper-batter has rejoined the team as they gear up for their campaign.
The Royals will begin their IPL 2025 season against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 23 at Uppal Stadium, Hyderabad. However, Sanju Samson’s availability as a wicketkeeper remains uncertain, as he continues to recover from his injury.
According to ESPNCricinfo, Samson had been undergoing rehabilitation at Bengaluru’s Centre of Excellence, and the team management is assessing his fitness before deciding whether he will keep wickets in the first game.
If Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals squad but is not fully fit to take up wicketkeeping duties, Dhruv Jurel is likely to step in as a specialist wicketkeeper for the opening match.
Will Sanju Samson Keep Wickets in the First Match?
Although Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals squad, his participation as the team’s wicketkeeper in the opening match is still uncertain.
During India’s fifth T20I against England in February, Samson suffered a finger injury when a Jofra Archer delivery struck him while batting. As a result, Dhruv Jurel had to take over wicketkeeping duties for the remainder of the match.
With IPL 2025 fast approaching, RR’s management is monitoring Samson’s fitness levels closely. While he is expected to be available as a batsman, his ability to keep wickets from the first game remains in question.
If Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals squad but does not keep wickets, Jurel’s inclusion as a specialist wicketkeeper could be crucial for the team’s balance.
Sanju Samson’s Impressive IPL 2024 Performance
Last season, Sanju Samson was one of Rajasthan Royals’ most consistent performers. His numbers in IPL 2024 highlight his importance to the team:
- 531 runs in 15 innings
- Average of 48.27
- Strike rate of 153.46
- Five half-centuries
- Best score of 86
- Fifth-highest run-getter in IPL 2024
With Sanju Samson joining Rajasthan Royals squad again, RR fans will hope for another strong batting season from their captain.
His ability to play match-winning knocks and accelerate the innings at crucial moments makes him a vital asset for the team.
Riyan Parag Returns After Injury
Apart from Sanju Samson joining Rajasthan Royals squad, RR has received another boost with Riyan Parag’s return from injury.
Parag, who missed the T20I series against South Africa and England due to a shoulder injury, is back to full fitness. He made a strong comeback during the second phase of the Ranji Trophy, scoring a half-century and bowling 26 overs against Saurashtra for Assam.
Last season, Parag was RR’s highest run-scorer and the third-highest overall in IPL 2024, delivering a breakout season:
- 573 runs at an average of 52.09
- Strike rate of 149.21
- Four half-centuries
- Best score of 84*
His move to number three proved to be a game-changing decision, and Rajasthan Royals will be relying on him once again in IPL 2025.
Sanju Samson Joins Rajasthan Royals Squad as Team Gears Up for Tough Start
With Sanju Samson joining Rajasthan Royals squad, the team is preparing for a challenging start to their IPL 2025 campaign.
After facing Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, Rajasthan Royals will play:
- March 26: vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) (Defending champions)
- March 30: vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
These back-to-back matches in Guwahati, RR’s second home base, will test their squad depth and form early in the season.
With Sanju Samson joining Rajasthan Royals squad, RR’s management is focusing on:
- Ensuring Samson is fully fit to contribute as both a captain and batsman.
- Assessing if he can resume wicketkeeping duties or if Jurel needs to step in.
- Building a solid batting lineup around Samson, Parag, and other key players.
- Starting the season strong to gain early momentum.
Sanju Samson’s Leadership Key to Rajasthan Royals’ Success
As Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals squad, his leadership will be crucial for the team’s performance in IPL 2025.
Under Samson’s captaincy, RR has shown glimpses of brilliance in past seasons but has fallen short of winning their second IPL title since their maiden triumph in 2008.
With an improved squad, experienced players, and young talents, Rajasthan Royals have a balanced team that can challenge for the IPL 2025 trophy.
However, much will depend on Sanju Samson’s form, fitness, and decision-making as RR aims for a deep playoff run.
Can RR Dominate IPL 2025?
With Sanju Samson joining Rajasthan Royals squad, RR fans have plenty to look forward to in IPL 2025.
If Samson regains full fitness and continues his impressive batting form, Rajasthan Royals will be strong contenders this season.
His ability to lead from the front and deliver under pressure will be crucial as RR aims to end their long title drought.
Can Rajasthan Royals claim their second IPL title under Samson’s captaincy? The answers will unfold as IPL 2025 kicks off.
