Riyan Parag to Captain Rajasthan Royals for First Three Matches of IPL 2025
Rajasthan Royals have stated that Riyan Parag will captain the side in the initial three matches of IPL 2025 since skipper Sanju Samson has not been given clearance by the BCCI Centre of Excellence to do wicketkeeping. Samson, although a crucial member of the team, will feature as a batter or Impact Player until he makes a complete recovery.
The wicketkeeper-batsman was injured on his finger when hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer during India's T20I series against England. He subsequently had surgery and successfully underwent rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Although he attended the Royals' first practice session on Monday, he is yet to receive clearance to start wicketkeeping and fielding. Fit once again, Samson will resume his leadership.
Parag's captaincy debut will be against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Rajasthan's season opener on March 23. He will also captain the team in two home matches against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati. The 22-year-old, RR's important middle-order batter, has been with the franchise since 2019 and will now get to prove his leadership skills on the big stage.
