Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson has received medical clearance to return as a wicketkeeper after recovering from finger surgery. He played the first three matches of IPL 2025 as a specialist batter but will now reclaim the captaincy from Riyan Parag and resume his role behind the stumps.
During Samson’s absence, RR used him as an Impact Player, with Parag leading the side and Dhruv Jurel keeping wicket. RR struggled initially, losing their first two matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). However, they bounced back with a win against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Guwahati on March 30.
RR confirmed Samson’s return in a statement, saying he would lead the team in their next game against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 5 in Mullanpur. His comeback allows RR more flexibility in their Impact Player strategy. Against CSK, RR subbed in Kumar Kartikeya after Samson’s dismissal, but he bowled just one over in their successful defense of 182.
So far in IPL 2025, Samson has scored 99 runs in three innings at a strike rate of nearly 155. With RR currently second from the bottom with two points, his return as both captain and keeper could strengthen their campaign.
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