Riyan Parag to Lead Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2025 Opening Matches

Riyan Parag Appointed as Rajasthan Royals Captain for First Three Matches of IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their stand-in captain for the first three matches of IPL 2025, with regular skipper Sanju Samson yet to recover fully from a finger injury. Samson will play as a specialist batter until he receives medical clearance to resume wicketkeeping duties.

Rajasthan Royals’ Bold Call for Leadership

The decision to entrust Parag with the captaincy reflects the franchise’s confidence in his leadership abilities. The 23-year-old all-rounder has experience leading Assam in domestic white-ball tournaments, and his growing stature in the IPL makes him a fitting choice. His tenure as captain will begin with Rajasthan Royals’ season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home fixtures against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and Chennai Super Kings on March 30.

Sanju Samson, a mainstay of Rajasthan Royals, is expected to return to captaincy once he is fully fit. Until then, he will play as an Impact Player, ensuring the Royals retain his batting prowess while giving his injury the time required for complete recovery.

Sanju Samson’s Recovery and Impact on the Royals’ Plans

Samson suffered a finger injury during India’s T20I series against England earlier this year. A bouncer from Jofra Archer caused damage to his right index finger, leading to surgery. Though he has made significant progress, the BCCI medical team has advised against wicketkeeping for the initial phase of the IPL.

Head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management opted for Parag as the interim captain over other potential candidates, including Yashasvi Jaiswal. Samson, meanwhile, will be a vital component of the playing XI, contributing with the bat as the team navigates its opening fixtures.

Riyan Parag’s Leadership Potential

Parag’s elevation to captaincy is a testament to his growing influence in Rajasthan Royals' setup. Having been with the franchise since his IPL debut, he has matured as a player, particularly in the previous IPL season, where he scored 573 runs at a strike rate of nearly 150. His leadership stint in Assam’s domestic tournaments also played a role in the decision to entrust him with this responsibility.

Parag will be supported by experienced campaigners like Shimron Hetmyer, Trent Boult, and Ravichandran Ashwin as he navigates this new challenge. Additionally, young wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel will take over behind the stumps in Samson’s absence.

Rajasthan Royals’ Squad Stability

Despite the temporary leadership change, Rajasthan Royals retain a strong core squad heading into IPL 2025. Alongside Samson and Parag, the team boasts the likes of Jaiswal, Jurel, Sandeep Sharma, and a host of seasoned T20 specialists. With a blend of youth and experience, the Royals are keen on making a strong start to their campaign.

As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Parag’s ability to lead from the front. His performances in the first three matches could play a key role in shaping Rajasthan Royals’ momentum, while Samson’s recovery remains crucial for the team’s long-term prospects.

With the IPL 2025 season set to begin, Rajasthan Royals remain optimistic about their leadership structure and the impact of their young captain. Parag’s appointment marks a significant moment in his career, and fans will eagerly watch how he handles the challenge of leading one of the IPL’s most exciting teams.