In what could be a massive blow for the Rajasthan Royals, captain and star batter Sanju Samson is reportedly doubtful for the remainder of IPL 2025. As per a report by Sportstar, the 30-year-old cricketer from Kerala has recently undergone medical scans, and his availability will depend on the results.
“Sanju Samson underwent scans, and his availability will depend on the reports,” Sportstar quoted a source close to the development.
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A Potential Setback for Rajasthan Royals
Samson, who has been the heartbeat of the Rajasthan Royals’ batting lineup over the years, was retained for a whopping ₹18 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. He is also the franchise’s all-time leading run-scorer and a key figure both on and off the field.
In RR’s recent clash against the Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Samson suffered an injury and was retired hurt in the sixth over of the run chase. Notably, he did not return to bat in the Super Over, sparking concerns over his fitness. Unfortunately for Rajasthan, they lost the match in the tie-breaker.
Leadership Impact: Who Will Lead?
If Samson is officially ruled out, Riyan Parag is likely to take over the captaincy. Parag led the side in the opening three games this season when Samson played as an Impact Player. While young, Parag has shown composure and confidence in his leadership, but replacing someone of Samson’s calibre and experience will be no easy task.
Samson’s IPL 2025 Performance So Far
Despite his injury concerns, Samson has had a decent run with the bat, playing all seven matches for RR:
- 🏏 224 runs from 7 innings
- ✅ 1 half-century
- 💥 Highest Score: 66 (vs SRH)
- 🟢 Remained not out on 31 in his most recent outing against DC
Match-wise breakdown:
- 66 (vs Sunrisers Hyderabad)
- 13 (vs Kolkata Knight Riders)
- 20 (vs Chennai Super Kings)
- 38 (vs Punjab Kings)
- 41 (vs Gujarat Titans)
- 15 (vs RCB)
- 31* (vs Delhi Capitals) – Retired hurt
His absence will not only hurt RR’s batting depth but also their tactical edge and leadership stability in crucial matches ahead.
RR’s Next Challenge: Will Samson Play?
Rajasthan Royals are set to take on Delhi Capitals once again on Saturday, April 19, this time at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. With uncertainty looming over Samson’s fitness, fans and team management will be eagerly awaiting the scan results to determine whether he will feature in that game or be sidelined for a longer period.