Trouble in the RR camp: Sanju Samson and Rahul Dravid at loggerheads?

Rajasthan Royals are trying hard but finding it exceptionally difficult to secure consistent victories in the ongoing IPL season. Their last fixture, the DC vs RR IPL 2025 match, ended in bitter disappointment, with the team losing a close encounter in the Super Over. Several decisions made by the RR management during the match have come under scrutiny. Despite half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Rana, which took the game down to the wire, Riyan Parag was sent out to bat in the Super Over. The move sparked criticism from fans, as the side missed out on crucial points against DC. Meanwhile, a particular moment from the RR camp, just before the Super Over, has caught the attention of netizens. The scene has led to speculation about a possible rift between skipper Sanju Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid.

Rahul Dravid rubbishes reports about rift with Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson

Speculation about a possible fallout emerged after a video clip from the DC vs RR IPL 2025 dramatic contest began circulating widely on social media. The footage, captured just before the Super Over against Delhi Capitals, showed Dravid in conversation with the support staff and a few players. As the group discussed which batters would face Mitchell Starc, one player motioned towards captain Sanju Samson, who stood near the dugout.

Look at Sanju Samson's reaction — it seems like he's not happy with Rahul Dravid, who is running the team according to his own wishes. pic.twitter.com/HdQeFl3NhM

— Registanroyals (@registanroyals) April 18, 2025

Samson, however, declined with a casual hand gesture and opted not to join the huddle.mThe moment quickly went viral, sparking online chatter about a possible disconnect in the Royals camp. Some fans speculated about Samson’s future as captain, while a few even floated far-fetched rumours linking him to a potential move to Chennai Super Kings. However, Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid has rubbished rumours suggesting friction between him and skipper Sanju Samson, labeling the claims as “unfounded” and reiterating that the squad remains fully aligned in their IPL 2025 campaign.

“I don't know where these reports are coming from. Sanju and I are on the same page,” said Dravid in a press conference.

“He's a very integral part of our team. He's involved in each and every decision and discussion. Sometimes, when you lose games and things don't go right, you face criticism and we can take it on our performances, but we can't do anything about this baseless stuff. The spirit of the team is really good, I'm impressed with how hard these guys work. One of the things people don't understand is how hurt the players feel when they don't perform.”

Despite the buzz, Rajasthan Royals remain in the playoff race, and attention is expected to shift back to cricket. RR’s upcoming clash with Lucknow Super Giants will be crucial as they aim to bounce back after a narrow loss in Delhi.