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Rajasthan Royals (RR) have appointed Riyan Parag as their captain for the first three matches of IPL 2025, with Sanju Samson recovering from a finger injury. The franchise confirmed the news on March 20, adding that Samson will continue as a pure batter until he regains full fitness to take on wicketkeeping and fielding duties.
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Sanju Samson’s Injury & Recovery Update
Samson, who underwent finger surgery last month, joined the Royals squad on March 18 after completing his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. While he is expected to be available as an Impact Player, Dhruv Jurel will take on wicketkeeping responsibilities in the initial matches.
🗣 Sanju Samson on handing over the captaincy to Parag:
“I’m not completely fit for three or more games. I think there are a lot of leaders in this group. Riyan will be leading, and he is well capable of doing it. I expect everyone to be with him and support him.”
Samson suffered the injury during India’s T20I series against England when a Jofra Archer bouncer struck his finger in the fifth game. He was subsequently ruled out and had to undergo surgery.
Riyan Parag’s First Stint as IPL Captain
Parag, who has been with RR since 2019, will captain the side for the first time in his IPL career. The Assam all-rounder had a remarkable IPL 2024 season, amassing:
✅ 573 runs in 14 matches
✅ Average: 52.09
✅ Strike Rate: 149.21
✅ Four half-centuries
His stellar performances in IPL 2024 also earned him a T20I and ODI debut for India.
Why Rajasthan Royals Chose Parag as Captain
📌 Franchise Statement:
“Rajasthan Royals’ decision to hand Riyan the captaincy underscores the franchise’s confidence in his leadership, a skill he has demonstrated through his tenure as Assam’s domestic captain. Having been a crucial member of the Royals setup over the years, his understanding of the team’s dynamic makes him well-equipped to step into this role for the initial phase of the tournament.”
Parag has also led Assam in domestic cricket, showcasing his leadership credentials. His experience in the RR setup, coupled with his aggressive batting style, makes him an ideal choice to lead the side in Samson’s absence.
Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Schedule (First Three Matches)
📅 March 23 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Away)
📅 March 26 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Home)
📅 March 30 – vs Chennai Super Kings (Home)
RR will be looking to make a strong start under Parag’s leadership, with key players like Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Trent Boult expected to play crucial roles.
Will Riyan Parag rise to the challenge and lead Rajasthan Royals to a perfect start? Stay tuned for IPL 2025 action!
