IPL 2025: RR Skipper Sanju Samson Ruled Out of RCB Clash, Continues Recovery at RR Base

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson won’t be part of the squad travelling to Bengaluru for their next IPL 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The franchise confirmed the news on Monday, April 21, as the team left Jaipur.

Samson picked up a rib injury during RR’s match against Delhi Capitals and had to retire hurt after facing just 19 balls. He later experienced abdominal pain and was rested for the match against Lucknow Super Giants. With recovery still in progress, he will also miss the upcoming game in Bengaluru.

“He is currently undergoing recovery and will remain at the team’s home base with select RR medical staff. As part of his ongoing rehab process, he will not be travelling to Bengaluru for the upcoming match against RCB,” Rajasthan Royals shared in an official statement.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Shines on Debut Amid Samson's Absence

In Sanju Samson’s absence, young Vaibhav Suryavanshi stepped up and made an instant impression. The debutant scored a lively 34 off just 20 balls, launching his IPL journey with an 80-meter six off Shardul Thakur. He looked confident at the crease and stitched a solid 85-run stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, their efforts weren’t enough to take Rajasthan Royals over the line against Lucknow Super Giants.

After the DC match, rumors started swirling on social media about a possible rift between Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid. Many fans speculated a disagreement, but Dravid shut down those claims ahead of the LSG game, calling them completely untrue.

Samson is confirmed to miss RR’s upcoming game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 24. The Royals will return to Jaipur after that for their next fixture against Gujarat Titans.