IPL 2025: Why is Riyan Parag captaining Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad instead of Sanju Samson?
IPL 2025: Why is Riyan Parag captaining Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad instead of Sanju Samson?
Rajasthan Royals will be captained by Riyan Parag in its IPL 2025 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday.
This comes after Sanju Samson, RR’s full-time captain, was not cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence for wicketkeeping and will only be available to play as a batter or Impact Player.
“Sanju Samson, an integral part of the Royals set-up, will remain a key contributor with the bat until he is cleared for wicketkeeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit,” the Royals announced earlier this week.
Parag will continue to lead the Royals for the next two matches — against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati.
Samson sustained a finger injury after being struck by a bouncer from Jofra Archer during India’s five-match T20I series against England. Following the injury, he underwent surgery to repair the damaged finger.
The 30-year-old completed his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and attended the Royals’ first practice session on Monday.
