The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has already begun creating headlines even before the tournament kicks off. Rajasthan Royals (RR), one of the most formidable teams in the IPL, faces a significant setback as their captain and star wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson may not be fit enough to don the gloves for the initial matches.
Sanju Samson suffered a fractured right index finger during India’s T20I series against England earlier this year. Though he has successfully recovered and cleared his fitness tests for batting, his ability to keep wickets remains uncertain. The National Cricket Academy (NCA) is still monitoring his recovery, and a final decision on his wicketkeeping role will be made closer to the tournament.
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How Will Sanju Samson’s Absence as Wicketkeeper Affect Rajasthan Royals?
1. Team Balance and Strategy
Sanju Samson has been a consistent performer for Rajasthan Royals, both as a batsman and wicketkeeper. If he is unable to keep wickets, RR might have to alter their team combination significantly. Dhruv Jurel, who has experience as a wicketkeeper, could step in, but that would mean adjusting their batting order and overseas player selection.
2. Dhruv Jurel’s Readiness
Dhruv Jurel, who has been a part of the Indian domestic circuit, is a talented wicketkeeper-batsman. While he lacks the international experience of Samson, he could be a reliable choice behind the stumps. However, RR may also consider playing an overseas wicketkeeper, which could affect the overall balance of the playing XI.
3. Leadership Impact
While Samson is expected to lead the team as captain, a non-keeping role may shift his focus solely to batting and captaincy. This could be both a blessing and a challenge. A focused batting role may allow him to score more runs, but the absence behind the stumps might affect on-field decision-making, which wicketkeepers are usually heavily involved in.
What Are the Possible Solutions for Rajasthan Royals?
1. Promoting Dhruv Jurel as the Main Wicketkeeper
Jurel is the most likely candidate to take over wicketkeeping duties if Samson is unable to keep. He has played in the domestic circuit and shown promise. This move would allow RR to maintain their batting lineup without making major changes.
2. Bringing in an Overseas Wicketkeeper
If RR wants more experience behind the stumps, they could bring in an overseas wicketkeeper. Some possible options include:
- Jos Buttler (if willing to keep wickets)
- Tom Banton (if part of the squad)
- Heinrich Klaasen (depending on availability)
However, using an overseas slot for a wicketkeeper might mean dropping a key foreign player from another position.
3. Rotating Responsibilities Temporarily
Another option could be for RR to allow Samson to start as a batsman-only player while someone like Yashasvi Jaiswal or Riyan Parag takes temporary wicketkeeping duties during powerplays or specific matches.
Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Schedule & Importance of a Wicketkeeper
The Rajasthan Royals kick off their campaign on March 23, 2025, against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their next few matches will be crucial in setting the tone for the season. Here’s a look at their first five games:
| Match | Date | Opponent | Venue |
| 1 | March 23 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Hyderabad |
| 2 | March 27 | Mumbai Indians | Jaipur |
| 3 | March 30 | Chennai Super Kings | Chennai |
| 4 | April 3 | Punjab Kings | Jaipur |
| 5 | April 7 | Delhi Capitals | Delhi |
Without a reliable wicketkeeper, these early games could be challenging for Rajasthan Royals.
How Rajasthan Royals Can Overcome This Setback
1. Strengthening Middle Order
With Samson possibly focusing solely on batting, the Royals can work on building a more solid middle order. Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, and Devdutt Padikkal can play crucial roles in stabilizing the batting lineup.
2. Utilizing Spin Attack
RR boasts one of the best spin bowling attacks with Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal. If they can control the middle overs, the team might compensate for any wicketkeeping challenges.
3. Prioritizing Fitness & Workload Management
The team’s physiotherapy and fitness team will play a significant role in ensuring Samson’s full recovery while also managing other players’ workload to avoid further injuries.
(FAQs)
1. Will Sanju Samson be available for IPL 2025?
Yes, he has been cleared to play as a batsman, but his wicketkeeping duties are still under observation.
2. Who can replace Sanju Samson as Rajasthan Royals’ wicketkeeper?
Dhruv Jurel is the most likely option. Alternatively, RR could use an overseas wicketkeeper.
3. How serious is Sanju Samson’s injury?
He suffered a fracture on his right index finger, but he has recovered enough to bat. His ability to keep wickets will be determined closer to the tournament.
4. Can Jos Buttler keep wickets for Rajasthan Royals?
While Buttler is an experienced wicketkeeper, RR might prefer using him solely as a batsman to maintain their team balance.
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