Riyan Parag will captain Rajasthan Royals for the first three games of Indian Premier League 2025. While the Assam batter is an incumbent, regular captain Sanju Samson will partake in the matches, albeit as a pure batter, possibly hinting at an impact player role.
Parag’s captaincy news came to light during an informal team chat by Samson, the video of which was shared by Rajasthan Royals’ social media handles. “I’m yet to be fully fit for the next three games,” said Samson while addressing the squad.
“There are many leaders in this team. Over the last few years, there have been some great people who have taken care of this environment really nicely. For the next three games, Riyan will be leading the team. I expect everyone to support him and be with him.”
Samson is on the comeback trail from the injury to his right index finger, sustained during the home T20Is against England recently. The talented keeper-bat had to undergo surgery for the same and has made good progress in his recovery. While Parag is set to lead in the first three games, Samson will be representing RR at the IPL captains’ meeting in Mumbai. While he is raring to go with the bat, there had been noticeable discomfort for the 30-year-old while keeping wickets.
💪 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
