IPL 2025: Sanju Samson is ready to reclaim the Rajasthan Royals captaincy mantle

Rajasthan Royals will reinstate their full-time captain, Sanju Samson, as he has fully recovered from his injury. An index finger injury had prevented Samson from taking on a full-fledged role at the start of IPL 2025. In the initial matches, he played only as an impact player, contributing as a batter while Dhruv Jurel handled wicketkeeping duties. Meanwhile, Riyan Parag stepped up as interim captain in Samson’s absence. As per the plan announced before the season, Samson was set to return to the leadership role after three matches. Now, with clearance from the NCA, RR will once again be led by their regular skipper as IPL 2025 progresses.

Sanju Samson cleared by the NCA to resume his full-time captaincy and wicket-keeping duties in IPL 2025

Sanju Samson is set to reclaim his full-time leadership role of Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing IPL season. Samson will take charge from RR’s next match against Punjab Kings, following clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to resume wicketkeeping duties. The Kerala cricketer had injured his finger during the home T20I series against England earlier this year. With his recovery still incomplete at the start of IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals appointed Royan Parag as interim captain for the first three games.

Despite not leading the team, Samson played in all three matches as an impact substitute, contributing with the bat while Dhruv Jurel handled wicketkeeping responsibilities. On Wednesday, the NCA greenlit Samson’s return behind the stumps, confirming his comeback as captain when RR face Punjab in Chandigarh on Saturday.

"Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has received clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to resume wicketkeeping duties following a period of recovery. The clearance comes after a thorough assessment of his fitness by the NCA medical team," Rajasthan's media statement read.

"With this positive development, Samson will return to his full leadership role and resume captaincy from the team's next match against the Punjab Kings. The franchise is encouraged by Samson's progress and looks forward to having him back in action behind the stumps and leading the side."

Rajasthan Royals had a shaky start to IPL 2025, losing their opener in a high-scoring encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad before falling to defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in Guwahati. However, they bounced back impressively in their last game at Barsapara Stadium, securing a crucial win over Chennai Super Kings.