Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as captain for the first three matches of the Indian Premier League 2025, the franchise announced. The team’s regular captain Sanju Samson has not been cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence to keep wickets and will only play as a batter or Impact Player.
“Sanju Samson, an integral part of the Royals set-up, will remain a key contributor with the bat till he gets cleared for wicket-keeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit,” the franchise said in a statement.
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Samson injured his finger after being struck by a Jofra Archer bouncer during India’s five-match T20I series against England. He underwent surgery to treat the damage and completed his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The 30-year-old attended Rajasthan’s first practice session on Monday.
Parag will lead the team in the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23. The Royals will then face defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time winners Chennai Super Kings on March 30 in Guwahati.
