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Riyan Parag to Lead Rajasthan Royals in First Three Matches of IPL 2025
Rajasthan Royals have announced that Riyan Parag will captain the team for the first three matches of IPL 2025 in the absence of regular skipper Sanju Samson. However, Samson will still feature in the playing XI as a specialist batter, possibly suggesting his role as an impact player.
The announcement was made during an informal team meeting, where Samson himself revealed the temporary leadership change. Rajasthan Royals shared the news through their official social media channels.
Sanju Samson’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
Sanju Samson suffered an injury to his right index finger during the recent home T20I series against England. The wicketkeeper-batter had to undergo surgery, which forced him to delay his participation as a captain in IPL 2025. While he is making steady progress in his recovery, he has not yet received medical clearance for wicketkeeping duties.
Samson’s Statement on the Temporary Captaincy Change
During the team announcement, Sanju Samson addressed the squad, acknowledging the depth of leadership within the Rajasthan Royals setup.
“I’m yet to be fully fit for the next three games. There are many leaders in this team. Over the last few years, there have been some great people who have taken care of this environment really nicely. For the next three games, Riyan will be leading the team. I expect everyone to support him and be with him,” said Samson.
Riyan Parag’s Leadership Opportunity
Riyan Parag, who has been an integral part of Rajasthan Royals over the years, will get a significant opportunity to lead the franchise. The Assam cricketer has showcased impressive performances in the domestic circuit and is expected to bring a fresh approach to RR’s captaincy.
Despite stepping down from captaincy duties temporarily, Sanju Samson will still play in the first three matches. The decision indicates that he might be used as an impact player until he fully recovers.
Sanju Samson to Represent RR in IPL Captains’ Meeting
Although Parag will lead the side in the first three matches, Sanju Samson will represent Rajasthan Royals in the IPL captains’ meeting in Mumbai. This confirms that he remains an essential part of the team’s leadership structure, and his return as full-time captain is only a matter of time.
Fitness Test at NCA for Wicketkeeping Clearance
Samson’s fitness remains under medical observation, and he is set to undergo another fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) after Rajasthan Royals’ third game in IPL 2025. His performance in the fitness test will determine whether he can resume his wicketkeeping duties for the rest of the season.
According to a report from Cricbuzz, Samson has recovered well while batting, but he continues to experience discomfort while keeping wickets. His clearance for wicketkeeping is crucial for RR’s team combination as the tournament progresses.
With Riyan Parag stepping up as captain, Rajasthan Royals will look to begin IPL 2025 on a strong note. Sanju Samson’s return as a full-time skipper depends on his fitness test results, which are expected after the third match. Until then, Rajasthan Royals will rely on Parag’s leadership and their experienced squad to guide them through the opening phase of the tournament.
Read More: IPL 2025 Schedule & Fixtures
Cricbuzz Report on Samson’s Fitness
