The Rajasthan Royals are aiming to be strong contenders for the playoffs in IPL 2025. Despite having many captains over the years, they seem to have found a consistent match-winner in wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, who became captain in 2021 and has since led the team to the playoffs twice, including reaching the final against Gujarat Titans in 2022. For the upcoming IPL 2025 season, RR has retained Sanju Samson as captain, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Sandeep Sharma, and Shimron Hetmyer.
During the auction, Rajasthan Royals invested heavily in players like Nitish Rana, Jofra Archer, and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Strengths: Rajasthan Royals’ main strength for IPL 2025 is their batting lineup. It features players like Samson, Jaiswal, Parag, Shubham Dubey, and Jurel. Sanju Samson is expected to open the batting with Jaiswal, after his impressive performances for India in T20Is in 2024. This opening pair could be very challenging for opposing bowlers. Riyan Parag also demonstrated his potential in 2024 and will be looking to play more significant innings for RR this season.
Weaknesses: In the auction, RR focused on strategy but missed out on retaining key players such as Jos Buttler, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Ravichandran Ashwin. While they have added Maheesh Theekshana and Hasaranga as spin bowlers, the absence of Chahal and Ashwin will likely be felt. Additionally, the team lacks a recognized overseas batter in the squad.
Opportunity: IPL 2025 could be a crucial season for fast bowler Jofra Archer, whose career has been affected by injuries. Archer previously played for RR, starting his IPL journey with them in 2018 and being a vital part of their bowling attack before his release in 2022. Furthermore, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old player acquired for a significant sum of Rs 1.1 crore, will be aiming to make a strong impression in the IPL.
Threats: Historically, RR’s inconsistency has been a major factor in their setbacks. This inconsistency could again pose a challenge in the upcoming season. However, with Rahul Dravid joining as head coach, the team will be hoping to compete more effectively.
Rajasthan Royals’ Strongest XI: Sanju Samson (c & wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Nitish Rana, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Jofra Archer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Sandeep Sharma, Maheesh Theekshana, Akash Madhwal.
Impact Players: Shubham Dubey, Yuddhvir Singh Charak.
