IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to lead Rajasthan Royals in first three games

Riyan Parag will lead Rajasthan Royals for the first three matches of IPL 2025, the franchise confirmed on March 20. The stop-gap arrangement is necessitated after a finger injury to regular skipper Sanju Samson. It is understood that Samson will take part as a pure batter until he gets the green signal for wicketkeeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit.

"I'm not completely fit for three or more games," Samson said in a video posted by the official RR handle on Instagram. "I think there are a lot of leaders from this group. From the last few years, there have been great people who have taken care of this environment really nicely. But for the three games, Riyan will be leading. He is well capable to do it and I expect everyone to be with him and support him."

Samson, who linked up with the Royals squad on Monday, underwent finger surgery last month, after which he went for rehab at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Samson will likely feature as an Impact Sub until he gains full fitness, with Dhruv Jurel expected to take the wicketkeeping duties. Jurel had filled in for Samson in the fifth T20I against England in February after the latter copped a blow on his finger by a rising Jofra Archer delivery.

As for Parag, this will be his first time leading the franchise, having been a part of the Royals setup since 2019. He had a stellar run in the previous IPL, tallying 573 runs at an average of 52.09 and a strike rate of nearly 150 (149.21) with four half-centuries. Those exploits culminated in a T20I and ODI debut for India.

"Rajasthan Royals' decision to hand Riyan the captaincy underscores the franchise's confidence in his leadership, a skill he has demonstrated through his tenure as Assam's domestic captain," a statement from the franchise said. "Having been a crucial member of the Royals setup over the years, his understanding of the team's dynamic makes him well-equipped to step into this role for the initial phase of the tournament."

Also Check: Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad for IPL 2025

The Royals will commence their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home fixtures against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time winners Chennai Super Kings on March 30.