“Riyan Parag to Lead Rajasthan Royals in First Three IPL 2025 Matches”

“He Is Well Capable of Leading the Team” – Sanju Samson Backs Young All-Rounder

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🏏 RR Names Riyan Parag as Stand-In Captain for IPL 2025 Opener

As Rajasthan Royals (RR) gear up for IPL 2025, the franchise has announced that young all-rounder Riyan Parag will lead the team for their first three matches, as regular skipper Sanju Samson continues to recover from a finger injury.

RR’s official statement confirmed that Parag will captain the side against Sunrisers Hyderabad (March 23), Kolkata Knight Riders (March 26), and Chennai Super Kings (March 30) before Sanju Samson resumes full captaincy duties.

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🗣️ Sanju Samson: “Riyan Is Ready for the Challenge”

RR took to social media with Samson himself announcing the decision, reinforcing his confidence in Parag’s leadership.

📢 “I am not completely fit for the first three matches. But we have great leaders in the squad. Riyan will be leading the team for these games. He is well capable of doing it, and I expect everyone to support him and stand by him.”

🩺 Injury Update:
During the fifth T20I against England, Samson suffered a finger injury from a Jofra Archer delivery, forcing Dhruv Jurel to step in as wicketkeeper.

While Samson will still play as a specialist batter, he will resume captaincy only after getting clearance for wicket-keeping and fielding duties.

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🔥 Riyan Parag: A Breakout Star Ready to Lead

RR’s decision to hand Parag the captaincy reflects the franchise’s belief in his leadership skills.

🔹 Proven Leadership: Parag has led Assam’s domestic team, showcasing his tactical acumen and composure under pressure.
🔹 Stellar IPL 2024 Season: Parag was Rajasthan’s top run-getter and third-highest overall, scoring 573 runs at an average of 52.09 with a strike rate of 149.21.
🔹 Power-Packed Batting: With four half-centuries and a best of 84 in IPL 2024*, Parag thrived after moving up to No. 3, proving his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed.

With an experienced core and exciting young talents, RR is eyeing a strong start in IPL 2025, ensuring continuity in leadership while Samson recovers.

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📅 RR’s First Three IPL 2025 Matches

🏏 March 23 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Away, Uppal Stadium, Hyderabad)
🏏 March 26 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Home, Guwahati)
🏏 March 30 – vs Chennai Super Kings (Home, Guwahati)