Rajasthan Royals Face Early Setback Ahead of IPL 2025
The Rajasthan Royals have been dealt a significant blow just days before the highly anticipated IPL 2025 season. The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League kicks off on March 22, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens. However, the Royals will begin their campaign on March 23 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) without regular captain Sanju Samson leading the team.
Sanju Samson Sidelined from Captaincy for Three Matches
Sanju Samson, recovering from a finger injury, has been advised against wicketkeeping and fielding duties for the initial phase of the tournament. As a result, batter Riyan Parag has been named interim captain for the first three matches.
Despite stepping down from leadership duties temporarily, Samson will continue to play as a specialist batter for the team. Rajasthan Royals confirmed in an official statement:
Why Riyan Parag as Captain?
- The 23-year-old all-rounder has been a part of the Royals’ core group for several years.
- He has demonstrated strong leadership skills as Assam’s domestic team captain.
- His deep understanding of the team dynamics and strategies makes him a natural choice.
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Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Schedule: First Three Matches
- March 23: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Away)
- March 26: vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Home – ACA Stadium, Guwahati)
- March 30: vs Chennai Super Kings (Home – ACA Stadium, Guwahati)
Following these fixtures, RR will move to their primary home venue at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur for the remainder of their home matches.
Sanju Samson’s Injury Update
Sanju Samson sustained a finger injury during India’s T20I series against England in February 2025, which required surgery and forced him to miss the latter part of the series. While he has rejoined the squad, medical clearance is still pending for his full return as captain and wicketkeeper.
Rajasthan Royals’ Performance in IPL 2024 – Can They Go One Step Further?
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- IPL 2024 Finish: 3rd place in the league stage
- Playoff Outcome: Lost the eliminator to Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Last IPL Title: 2008 (Inaugural Champions)
With a solid squad and an experienced core, the Royals will look to capitalize on their strengths and push for their second IPL title in 2025.
What’s Next for Rajasthan Royals?
Sanju Samson is expected to return as captain after the first three games, provided he receives clearance from the medical team. In the meantime, Riyan Parag will be under the spotlight, leading the side against top IPL contenders.
Will Riyan Parag Shine as Captain? Share Your Thoughts!
Do you think Riyan Parag has what it takes to lead the Royals to a strong start? Drop your predictions in the comments below! 
Rajasthan Royals Face Early Setback Ahead of IPL 2025
The Rajasthan Royals have been dealt a significant blow just days before the highly anticipated IPL 2025 season. The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League kicks off on March 22, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens. However, the Royals will begin their campaign on March 23 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) without regular captain Sanju Samson leading the team.
Sanju Samson Sidelined from Captaincy for Three Matches
Sanju Samson, recovering from a finger injury, has been advised against wicketkeeping and fielding duties for the initial phase of the tournament. As a result, batter Riyan Parag has been named interim captain for the first three matches.
Despite stepping down from leadership duties temporarily, Samson will continue to play as a specialist batter for the team. Rajasthan Royals confirmed in an official statement:
Why Riyan Parag as Captain?
- The 23-year-old all-rounder has been a part of the Royals’ core group for several years.
- He has demonstrated strong leadership skills as Assam’s domestic team captain.
- His deep understanding of the team dynamics and strategies makes him a natural choice.
Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Schedule: First Three Matches
- March 23: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Away)
- March 26: vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Home – ACA Stadium, Guwahati)
- March 30: vs Chennai Super Kings (Home – ACA Stadium, Guwahati)
Following these fixtures, RR will move to their primary home venue at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur for the remainder of their home matches.
Sanju Samson’s Injury Update
Sanju Samson sustained a finger injury during India’s T20I series against England in February 2025, which required surgery and forced him to miss the latter part of the series. While he has rejoined the squad, medical clearance is still pending for his full return as captain and wicketkeeper.
Rajasthan Royals’ Performance in IPL 2024 – Can They Go One Step Further?
- IPL 2024 Finish: 3rd place in the league stage
- Playoff Outcome: Lost the eliminator to Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Last IPL Title: 2008 (Inaugural Champions)
With a solid squad and an experienced core, the Royals will look to capitalize on their strengths and push for their second IPL title in 2025.
What’s Next for Rajasthan Royals?
Sanju Samson is expected to return as captain after the first three games, provided he receives clearance from the medical team. In the meantime, Riyan Parag will be under the spotlight, leading the side against top IPL contenders.
Will Riyan Parag Shine as Captain? Share Your Thoughts!
Do you think Riyan Parag has what it takes to lead the Royals to a strong start? Drop your predictions in the comments below!
