Rajasthan Royals will be captained by Riyan Parag in its IPL 2025 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday.

This comes after Sanju Samson, RR’s full-time captain, was not cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence for wicketkeeping and will only be available to play as a batter or Impact Player.

“Sanju Samson, an integral part of the Royals set-up, will remain a key contributor with the bat until he is cleared for wicketkeeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit,” the Royals announced earlier this week.

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Parag will continue to lead the Royals for the next two matches — against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati.

Samson sustained a finger injury after being struck by a bouncer from Jofra Archer during India’s five-match T20I series against England. Following the injury, he underwent surgery to repair the damaged finger.

The 30-year-old completed his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and attended the Royals’ first practice session on Monday.