Why Did RR Choose Lhuan-dre Pretorius as Nitish Rana's Replacement for IPL 2025?
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Synopsis
In an unexpected turn of events, Rajasthan Royals have signed Lhuan-dre Pretorius to replace the injured Nitish Rana for the rest of IPL 2025. Discover how this young South African talent could impact RR's performance as they face challenges ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Lhuan-dre Pretorius has been signed by Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Nitish Rana.
- Pretorius made a strong entrance into T20 cricket, showcasing his skills at a young age.
- Rana's absence is a significant blow, but RR aims to maintain competitiveness.
- RR's playoff hopes are over, but they look to finish the season strong.
- The upcoming matches are crucial for team morale.
New Delhi, May 8 (NationPress) The Rajasthan Royals (RR) have officially appointed Lhuan-dre Pretorius as a substitute for Nitish Rana, who is unable to continue in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to injury.
This South African player has participated in 33 T20 matches, accumulating 911 runs with a top score of 97. He will be joining RR for his base price of Rs 30 Lakh.
Pretorius, a powerful left-handed batsman who can also don the wicketkeeper's gloves, made his T20 debut last year for Northerns at the age of 17, showcasing his talent during the Under-19 World Cup.
Earlier this year, he emerged as the leading run-scorer in his debut season of SA20, amassing 397 runs in 12 matches for Paarl Royals at an impressive strike rate of 166.80.
Rana, who was previously released by KKR before the mega auction for 2025, was acquired by RR for 4.20 crore. Unfortunately, he couldn't meet expectations, scoring just 217 runs in 11 games before his injury.
The middle-order batsman was absent from the team's lineup against his former team, KKR, with RR captain Riyan Parag citing a 'niggle' as the reason for his unavailability. In Rana's stead, Kunal Rathore made his debut.
Despite skipper Riyan Parag's 95 runs, RR faced a heartbreaking one-run defeat against KKR. He also made history as the first player in IPL to hit six consecutive sixes in the tournament.
With RR already out of the playoff contention, they are set to face the last-placed Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk on May 12, before returning home to take on the Punjab Kings in their final match of the IPL 2025 season on May 16.
Point of View
I believe this strategic move by the Rajasthan Royals could reinvigorate their campaign in IPL 2025. The addition of a promising talent like Lhuan-dre Pretorius highlights RR's commitment to not only compete but also to nurture young talent. It's a refreshing approach in the ever-evolving dynamics of T20 cricket.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Lhuan-dre Pretorius?
Lhuan-dre Pretorius is a young South African cricketer known for his explosive batting and wicketkeeping abilities. He has made a significant impact in T20 cricket.
Why was Nitish Rana replaced?
Nitish Rana was replaced due to an injury that has ruled him out for the remainder of IPL 2025.
What are Pretorius' statistics?
Lhuan-dre Pretorius has played 33 T20 matches, scoring 911 runs, with a career-best score of 97.
When will RR play their next match?
Rajasthan Royals will face Chennai Super Kings on May 12, followed by a match against Punjab Kings on May 16.
What happened in RR's last match against KKR?
RR lost to KKR by one run, despite a remarkable innings of 95 runs from captain Riyan Parag.
