Wanindu Hasaranga And...? 3 Players Who Can Be X-Factor For Sanju Samson's RR In IPL 2025
![Wanindu Hasaranga bought for INR 5.25 Crore [Source: @chinmayshah28/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1732780408539_Sanju_Samson.jpg?im=Resize=(650,450))
Wanindu Hasaranga bought for INR 5.25 Crore [Source: @chinmayshah28/X.com]
Rajasthan Royals have been in the talks ever since they went with a comparatively lesser money in the recently concluded IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a limited purse of ₹40.70 crore, the team made some smart choices to strengthen their squad. Among them, their most notable pick was Jofra Archer, bought for a hefty ₹12.4 crore.
RR are aiming to reclaim the IPL trophy, which they last won in the inaugural edition, back in 2008. To achieve this, they’ll rely heavily on a few standout players who have the potential to turn games around out of nowhere.
Here, let’s look at three X-factor players who could be crucial for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025.
Wanindu Hasaranga
Sri Lankan all rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is one of the most exciting talents in T20 format. Purchased for ₹5.25 crore, Hasaranga brings immense value to the team, whether it comes with ball in hand or bat. The left-arm legbreak spinner is known for his wicket-taking ability and he can strike on any surface. This ability makes him a genuine threat to opposition batters.
Apart from his bowling skills, Hasaranga is also a reliable batter, and he indeed adds batting depth to the RR lineup. With his power-hitting skills, he can score quick runs in the lower order. His all-round abilities ensure balance in the squad, making him a key player for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025.
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Nitish Rana
Despite the fact that Nitish Rana was a critical part of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), he was released by the IPL 2024 champions before the mega auction. However, RR recognising his potential to strengthen their batting lineup, snapped him up for ₹4.2 crore. Rana has a plenty of experience, where he can bat at any position in the top or upper middle order.
Rana is also-known for his aggressive starts and can hit boundaries from the very first ball. He has the ability to switch gears according to the situation which gives RR flexibility in their batting strategy. After helping KKR win the IPL 2024 title, Rana will surely aim to replicate his success with Rajasthan Royals.
Akash Madhwal
Akash Madhwal, one of Mumbai Indians' emerging stars lately, was bought by RR for ₹1.20 crore. The right-arm medium pacer, who has consistently delivered impressive performances in both domestic cricket and the IPL, was in high demand.
Madhwal has only played for one franchise and where he made his IPL debut with Mumbai Indians back in 2023, when he picked up 14 wickets in just 8 matches, including a brilliant five-wicket haul. Despite a relatively quieter IPL 2024, he showcased his potential as a reliable bowler. With Jofra Archer’s fitness often in question, Madhwal could step up to lead RR’s pace attack. He’s capable of delivering with the new ball, excelling in death overs, and maintaining pressure on batters.
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