IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to Lead Rajasthan Royals in Initial Matches
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Synopsis
Rajasthan Royals have appointed Riyan Parag as captain for the first three matches of IPL 2025, while regular captain Sanju Samson recovers from injury. Parag's leadership will commence against Sunrisers Hyderabad, with Samson expected to play as a specialist batter until cleared for full duties.
Key Takeaways
- Riyan Parag will captain the Royals for the initial matches.
- Sanju Samson is recovering from an injury and will play as a batter.
- Parag has experience as a domestic captain.
- The first matches are against strong teams like Sunrisers and Kolkata Knight Riders.
- The Royals aim for a strong season after last year's playoff appearance.
Jaipur, March 20 (NationPress) - The Rajasthan Royals have declared that Riyan Parag will take the helm for the first three contests of IPL 2025, as the regular captain Sanju Samson is set to resume his leadership role once he regains full fitness.
The young all-rounder will kick off his captaincy in the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home games against the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26, and the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings on March 30.
The franchise noted that Samson still awaits clearance for his wicketkeeping and fielding duties. Nevertheless, he won’t miss any matches, as he is expected to participate as a specialist batter.
“Sanju Samson, an essential component of the Royals, will continue to contribute significantly with the bat until he receives clearance for wicketkeeping and fielding. He will return as captain when fully fit,” stated the franchise.
Samson rejoined the squad recently after recovering from finger surgery, an injury he sustained during India’s T20I series against England in February, which ultimately sidelined him for the rest of the series and necessitated surgical intervention.
The decision by the Rajasthan Royals to appoint Riyan as captain highlights the franchise’s trust in his leadership abilities, which he has exhibited during his tenure as captain of Assam’s domestic team. As a vital member of the Royals for several years, his comprehension of the team’s dynamics makes him well-prepared to assume this role during the tournament's opening phase.
The Rajasthan Royals are set to play their first two home matches of the season at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings on March 26 and March 30, respectively. The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur will be the Royals’ stronghold for the remainder of their home games.
The Royals, who clinched the inaugural IPL title in 2008, made it to the playoffs last year, finishing third in the points table, but fell short of reaching the final after losing the eliminator to Sunrisers Hyderabad.
