Sanju Samson joins Rajasthan Royals camp ahead of IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals' captain and Indian wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, has joined his franchise's camp for the IPL 2025 season after successfully recovering from finger surgery. Samson sustained the injury during India’s T20I series against England in February, when he was struck on the finger by a Jofra Archer delivery in the fifth T20I. This forced the Kerala batter to undergo surgery and subsequently enter a rehabilitation program at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. While the news of Samson's return is a welcome relief for Rajasthan Royals, there remains uncertainty about whether he will be able to take up wicketkeeping duties immediately. Samson, known for his dynamic batting and reliable wicketkeeping, has been an integral part of the Royals' squad, and his presence strengthens the team’s batting line-up.

However, before making a final decision, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) will conduct further tests to ensure that the 28-year-old’s finger has fully healed. Only after receiving clearance from the NCA will he be able to return to his wicketkeeping role. Samson’s return to the IPL comes at a crucial time, and his fitness and form will be key to Rajasthan Royals’ chances in the upcoming season. His leadership, combined with his batting and keeping skills, will be a major asset to the team.

Sanju Samson’s availability as a wicketkeeper for Rajasthan Royals in the early matches of IPL 2025 remains uncertain, as the team will wait for final clearance on his recovery. If he’s not ready to take up wicketkeeping duties, the Royals may consider using Dhruv Jurel as a temporary replacement behind the stumps. Samson’s return to the squad is crucial, given his standout performances for the Royals in IPL 2024. The Kerala batter was one of the team's top performers, amassing 531 runs in 15 innings at an impressive average of 48.27.

His strike rate of 153.46 highlighted his aggressive batting style, and he scored five half-centuries during the season. Samson's consistency with the bat and his leadership qualities make him a vital player for the Royals. While his role as a wicketkeeper is still up in the air, his batting prowess and experience remain invaluable to the team as they look to make a strong start in the 2025 season.

Grateful for you skipper 💗 pic.twitter.com/hsdGYek6pp

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 17, 2025

All-rounder Riyan Parag has fully recovered from his shoulder injury and is set to feature in the playing XI for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. Parag, who had an outstanding 2024 season, was the franchise's top run-scorer and the third-highest overall in the tournament. He accumulated 573 runs at an impressive average of 52.09, with a striking rate of 149.21. His promotion to the number three batting position proved to be a masterstroke for the Royals, offering stability and flair in the middle order.

Rajasthan Royals will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Uppal Stadium on Sunday, March 23. This will be followed by two consecutive home matches in Guwahati. On March 26, they will face defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders, and then on March 30, they will take on Chennai Super Kings. The Royals are gearing up for a strong start to the season, with key players like Parag and Samson playing pivotal roles in their lineup.