Will Sanju Samson Play Today's RR vs PBKS IPL 2025 Match?

Debashis Sarangi

Sanju Samson missed several matches due to injury [Source: AP]Sanju Samson missed several matches due to injury [Source: AP]

Rajasthan Royals (RR) will cross swords against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match number 59 of the ongoing Indian Premier League season. The high-voltage clash is scheduled at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. RR have already been eliminated from the tournament and will play for their pride. 

Is Sanju Samson Available For RR Vs PBKS Match?

RR skipper Sanju Samson initially played the IPL 2025 purely as a batter due to an unfortunate thumb injury. However, a side injury completely ruled him out of several crucial encounters, with Riyan Parag leading the side. 

However, the abrupt suspension of the IPL 2025 worked wonders for Samson, giving him enough time to recover and get ready for the remaining matches. The Kerala batter has been actively participating in RR's net sessions, proving his improved fitness ahead of the clash against Punjab Kings. 

As Cricbuzz mentioned in its preview, Samson is all set to make his IPL 2025 comeback through the RR vs PBKS affair. So, in all likelihood, the explosive keeper-batter will replace Riyan Parag as the captain while batting at number three, his usual position in the previous IPL season. 

Who Will Sanju Samson Replace In RR vs PBKS Game?

Before the IPL 2025 was suspended, RR slotted Kunal Singh Rathore at number three in their last group-stage match vs KKR. However, the batter failed to open his account, getting dismissed for a five-ball duck. 

Thus, Samson will likely replace Rathore at number three in RR's playing XI, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi performing exceedingly in the opening slots. 

In 92 innings at number three, Samson has struck 3035 runs at an average of 38.42 and a strike rate of 143.63. Thus, his demotion could actually benefit the batter, as he hasn't been at his absolute best as an opener this season.