Sanju Samson Returns as Captain and Wicketkeeper for Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals (RR) have received a significant boost with the return of their captain, Sanju Samson, to full fitness. After undergoing finger surgery and missing the initial stages of the IPL 2025 season as a designated wicketkeeper, Samson has been cleared by the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru to resume both his captaincy and wicketkeeping duties. This news comes as a welcome relief for the Royals, who have had a mixed start to their campaign.
Samson’s absence saw Riyan Parag take on the leadership role, with the team experiencing both defeats and victory. They lost their opening encounters against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) before registering a win against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 30th. Samson’s return is expected to bolster the team’s stability and tactical flexibility, particularly with regards to their Impact Player strategy. In the match against CSK, Kumar Kartikeya was utilized as the Impact Player after Samson’s dismissal, playing a key role in the team’s successful defense of 182 runs. Having Samson back provides RR with more options and allows them to adapt to in-game situations more effectively.
“With this positive development, Samson will return to his full leadership role and resume captaincy from the team’s next match against the Punjab Kings,” an official RR statement confirmed. “The franchise is encouraged by Samson’s progress and looks forward to having him back in action behind the stumps and leading the side.” This reinforces the team management’s confidence in Samson’s abilities and the positive impact they expect him to have.
Despite being unable to keep wicket, Samson has demonstrated decent batting form in the tournament so far, accumulating 99 runs in three innings at a strike rate of nearly 155. His contributions at the top of the order have been valuable, but the team will undoubtedly benefit from having his experience and tactical acumen back in the field. Currently placed second from the bottom of the points table with two points from three matches, RR will be looking to Samson’s return to inspire a turnaround in their fortunes. The upcoming match against Punjab Kings on April 5th in Mullanpur will be a crucial test for the Royals and a key opportunity for Samson to reassert his influence on the side. His presence behind the stumps will not only enhance the team’s wicketkeeping but also provide valuable insights and guidance to the bowlers. Fans will be eagerly anticipating his performance and leadership as RR aim to climb the IPL standings. The team’s success in the upcoming matches will largely depend on Samson’s ability to lead from the front and inspire his teammates to perform at their best.
