IPL 2025 Moving Forward Samson Eager to Identify

IPL 2025 – “Moving Forward” – Samson Eager to Identify the Strengths of the Revamped RR Team

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Ahead of IPL 2025, the Rajasthan Royals boast a revamped bowling lineup, losing key players like R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Trent Boult. Captain Sanju Samson acknowledges the challenge but expresses confidence in his young squad to step up. With Jos Buttler departing to Gujarat Titans, the team’s batting also sees a significant change. Samson highlights the importance of assessing the strengths and weaknesses of new players, including Jofra Archer and Maheesh Theekshana. He emphasizes a fresh outlook and collaboration with bowlers, while also noting the anticipated tough conditions for bowlers this season. Samson praises young talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi as a promising asset for the team.

As IPL 2025 approaches, the Rajasthan Royals’ bowling lineup has undergone significant changes compared to last year, with many key players having switched to different franchises. Full-time captain Sanju Samson acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains confident in his young talents to “demonstrate their capabilities”.
While Sandeep Sharma is still part of the squad, the team has lost prominent bowlers like R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Trent Boult. The batting lineup also faces a substantial gap, as Jos Buttler has joined the Gujarat Titans after not being retained—a decision that Samson recently described as difficult.
Commenting on the revamped squad as his team readies for the season opener, Samson remarked: “Honestly, that’s the challenge the IPL has presented to me. For the last three years, I was surrounded by some of the finest cricketers in the world. Now, I’m among a group of younger players in the IPL. We’re maintaining a positive outlook. The youngsters bring a lot of enthusiasm; they are eager to show the world what they can do.”

Samson emphasized the importance of quickly adapting and recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of the new players. This season’s bowling lineup features Jofra Archer (returning to the Royals for the first time since the 2020-21 season) and Maheesh Theekshana, alongside a host of Indian talents such as Akash Madhwal, Tushar Deshpande, and Kumar Kartikeya.

“We need to move on from the past, let go of what has happened, and forget the quality of players we had,” Samson stated. “These are different players with different line-ups. We must approach this with fresh perspectives and thinking. We can’t dwell on last year’s performances.”

“As a captain, I trust my bowlers. They need to communicate their strengths and what they want to deliver. It’s about blending my experience with their insights to find the best way forward. After a few matches, we will better understand their strengths and weaknesses.”

Samson anticipates challenging conditions for bowlers, even though some measures—like permitting one ball change upon request after 10 overs in evening games to combat dew—have been implemented to assist them.

“During the powerplay, bowlers are heavily targeted, which is where the challenge lies,” Samson said. “Bowlers are constantly innovating with new strategies—change of pace, slower balls, and bouncers. With the IPL now allowing players to use saliva, this could benefit bowlers, alongside the new ball rule due to dew. We’re making efforts to strike a balance, but it still appears to be a high-scoring season.”

Vaibhav Suryavanshi is a unique talent, says Samson

“He stands out as something special,” Samson remarked. “Our team noticed his potential during trials. Our scouts observing him in U-19 matches were impressed by the range of shots he played. It indicates he is truly suited for the highest level.”

“To be honest, he’s fortunate to be part of Rajasthan Royals at such a young age, working alongside Rahul Dravid [head coach] and other mentors. They excel at nurturing young Indian talent coming through.”

“It’s a significant responsibility, not just for him but for us to nurture him and guide him, not only during these two months but for the 10 months he spends away from IPL. He’s in excellent hands, and there’s something unique poised to emerge for Indian cricket from him in the coming years.”

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