New Delhi: Once a prodigy and now a rising star, Riyan Parag will captain the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their first three games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Sanju Samson, the regular skipper will rather play as a specialist batter and probably as an impact substitute as he is yet to receive a clearance to keep wickets and field post his finger surgery.
Samson sustained a fracture on his finger after being hit by a Jofra Archer delivery during the India vs England T20I in Mumbai last month. He underwent a minor surgery and is currently recovering. Although he is cleared to bat, it is understood that the medical team at the BCCI Centre of Excellence has advised more rest to his fingers before he starts to keep wickets.
RR informed about the development through a social media video and a release. In the video, Samson named Parag as the skipper for the first three games in what was a casual chit-chat session. “I’m not completely fit for three or more games. 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,” Samson said
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,” he added. This makes 23-year-old Parag one of the youngest IPL captains after Virat Kohli
💪 Update: Sanju will be playing our first three games as a batter, with Riyan stepping up to lead the boys in these matches! 💗 pic.twitter.com/FyHTmBp1F5
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 20, 2025
Nonetheless, Samson will continue to be a key contributor for the Royals with the bat until he gets cleared for fielding and wicket-keeping. He will return as captain once getting full-fit.
Why Parag as skipper?
The RR management reasoned why they chose the Assamese cricketer ahead of young Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been an international batter in their ranks. “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.
“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,” the team said in a statement.
Parag will be seen leading the Pinks in their opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 23, followed by home encounters in Guwahati against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (March 26) and Chennai Super Kings (March 30).
Riyan Parag has been promoted as the skipper of Rajasthan Royals for their first three IPL 2025 fixtures. Due to Sanju Samson not getting a “fully-fit” clearance, he will pursue a new role. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
