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"He's Been Missed": Sandeep Sharma Says Sanju Samson's Absence Is Hurting RR

Soumyajit Dutta

Sandeep Sharma and Sanju Samson [Source: @rathor7_/X]Sandeep Sharma and Sanju Samson [Source: @rathor7_/X]

Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) dismal IPL 2025 season worsened on Thursday as they slumped to their fifth straight defeat, losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 11 runs in a match that saw regular captain Sanju Samson sidelined due to a side tear. 

Pacer Sandeep Sharma pinpointed Sanju Samson’s absence, coupled with batting collapses and fielding errors, as key reasons behind the team’s struggles.

No Captain, No Clue? Sandeep On Sanju Samson's Absence

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Sandeep Sharma emphasised how Samson’s leadership and experience have been sorely missed. 

“Obviously, his absence has certainly made a difference. He’s a highly experienced captain and a smart batsman, so not having him in the side has impacted us. He missed the first three matches as captain, and then suffered a side injury again. Naturally, these setbacks are affecting us. All these issues combined are dragging the team down.” Sharma said.

Samson’s turbulent season began with him missing the first three matches as a captain, with Riyan Parag stepping in. Though he returned to lead the side in three games, a side injury during RR’s super-over loss to Delhi Capitals forced him to retire hurt. He has since missed two matches, including the RCB clash.

Samson's Return Uncertain Amidst RR's Woes

Stand-in skipper Parag confirmed at the toss in Bengaluru that Samson’s recovery timeline remains unclear. RR, currently eighth in the 10-team table with just three wins in nine matches, now face a must-win scenario to stay in playoff contention. Their next challenge comes against table-toppers Gujarat Titans on April 28.

The Royals’ batting unit, barring Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal, has repeatedly failed to fire, while dropped catches and misfields have compounded their woes. With Samson’s return uncertain, the team’s hopes of reviving their season hang by a thread.