IPL 2025: Sanju Samson Set To Return For Rajasthan Royals For Penultimate Matches

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has rejoined the team ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 resumption and is set to feature in the final two games of their campaign. Although RR are no longer in contention for the playoffs, the team is expected to field a strong side and finish the season on a high.

Samson, who suffered an abdominal tear during a clash against Delhi Capitals last month, has recovered fully and resumed training.

The Royals' skipper missed a few games due to the injury and remained in Jaipur for rehabilitation instead of travelling with the team. The temporary suspension of the league due to geopolitical tensions provided Samson with a crucial recovery window.

While speaking to MyKhel, a source said that the 30-year-old returned to the RR camp in Jaipur after a brief stay in Kerala and is expected to lead the team against Punjab Kings on May 18. He has currently regained full fitness after his abdominal tear and is available for selection.

So far, Samson has played seven matches in the season, scoring 224 runs at an average of 32 and a strike rate above 143. His campaign has been plagued by injuries, including a finger injury that limited his role to batting alone in the early stages.

Rajasthan Royals have also regained several Indian players, including Riyan Parag and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, for the final stretch of the tournament.

Additionally, South African batter Lhuan-dre Pretorius has been signed as a replacement for the injured Nitish Rana. However, Jofra Archer remains unavailable for the remainder of the tournament.

Rajasthan Royals will play both of their last two matches in Jaipur. They commence the final phase of the tournament against Punjab Kings on May 18, followed by their final match against Chennai Super Kings on May 20.