Sanju Samson's participation in IPL 2025 - Rajasthan Royals consider replacing him

Indian cricket's scintillating performer may miss the Indian Premier League edition of 2025 after injuring himself recently. Kerala cricketer Sanju Samson sustained a finger fracture while playing the 5th T20I match against England. The index finger of Sanju Samson was severely damaged after getting hit by a bouncer from Jofra Archer. This injury is expected to keep the wicketkeeper-batter out of action for about four to six weeks, which raises questions about his availability for the IPL season that starts on March 21.

Availability of Samson for IPL 2025

The absence of Samson is a significant loss for Rajasthan Royals as he is their team captain. His leadership and the consistency he provides at the crease have been very crucial. With the IPL 2025 just a few months away, it remains to be seen whether he will be fit to take part from the very beginning of the tournament. The gravity of the injury and the recovery period are still unknown, leaving the Royals with a tough call on their final combination.

As long as Samson gets fit by the latter stages of the tournament, the chance of missing at least the opening few games would not be small. The absence of the team's star for at least two games would, in this scenario, force it to adapt with urgency. Nevertheless, if longer than expected periods of recovery have to be seen through, replacement players may come into the scene, and possibly other options besides those.

Potential Rajasthan Royals Targets if Samson Not Available for the Entire Season

If Samson does not recover in time for the beginning of IPL 2025, then Rajasthan Royals has several options at hand. Three such players, who could well replace the skipper, are:

Mayank Agarwal-A Seasoned Option

One of the obvious choices for replacing Samson is Mayank Agarwal, a seasoned Karnataka batter. Although Agarwal went unsold in the IPL auction, he has returned to form for his domestic team. He, therefore, forms a valuable asset to any side looking to build its strength with an IPL career. His capability of opening batsmen and even being a keeper would make him very attractive for the Rajasthan Royals. His experience at the top level may give the stability and leadership that is required in the absence of Samson.

Sarfaraz Khan-The Explosive Batting Option

Another alternative to Samson could be Sarfaraz Khan, who has had very few chances to play for India in Test cricket but has shown great promise in domestic tournaments. Though he did not get a deal in the IPL 2025 mega auction, Sarfaraz could be a game-changer for Rajasthan Royals. He is an aggressive batsman who can be added to the middle order of Royals. In addition, Sarfaraz is also a wicketkeeper. Therefore, if needed, he can be the perfect backup to Samson.

Shai Hope-International Backup

Rajasthan Royals could also look for Shai Hope, the West Indies wicketkeeper-batter, as one of the overseas spots is still left. Hope has a great record in international cricket, especially in limited-overs formats, and could be a good choice for the Royals as a reliable opener. Although he has limited experience in the IPL with Delhi Capitals, his batting and wicket-keeping skills make him an ideal candidate. Hope would bring much-needed balance to the team if Samson is unavailable.

Conclusion-What's Next for Rajasthan Royals?

Sanju Samson's participation may remain uncertain up to the first matches of Rajasthan Royals in the approaching IPL 2025 because the management hopes that he is recovered in time to lead their franchise. Of course, though weeks are limited to the championship, the player's chances for missing the entire initial part of the season seem hard to completely ignore. In such a situation, the Royals will have to carefully consider their alternatives and make the best choice to ensure their campaign does not falter.

Whether it is Mayank Agarwal, Sarfaraz Khan, or Shai Hope, Rajasthan Royals have some potential players who can replace Samson. The franchise would be hoping to get the best possible outcome but preparing for contingencies if the injury sidelines their star player for much longer than expected.