IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals sign Lhuan-dre Pretorius to replace injured Nitish Rana for rest of season

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IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals’ topsy-turvy IPL 2025 campaign has taken yet another turn. With experienced middle-order batter Nitish Rana ruled out of the tournament due to injury, the Royals have summoned a fresh face to their camp—dynamic South African youngster Lhuan-dre Pretorius.

On Thursday, the IPL issued an official media advisory confirming Pretorius’s inclusion in the squad. “Rajasthan Royals (RR) have named Lhuan-dre Pretorius as a replacement for Nitish Rana, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to injury,” stated the IPL press release.

Rana's Exit, Royals’ Pain

Rana, who featured in 11 matches this season, offered glimpses of brilliance with the bat. The southpaw tallied 217 runs at an average of 21.70 and an explosive strike rate nearing 162. His finest moment came against Chennai Super Kings, where he blazed his way to a superb 81.

But with RR already eliminated from playoff contention—languishing in ninth place with just three wins from 12 matches—Rana’s exit is another blow to a forgettable season. His campaign, marked by two half-centuries, showcased flashes of his ability but lacked the consistency RR desperately needed.

Enter Pretorius: A Royal Familiar with Firepower

Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who will join RR at his base price of ₹30 lakh, is no stranger to the Royals’ system. The 21-year-old batter has already donned the pink and blue, albeit in a different continent. He played for the Paarl Royals—RR’s sister franchise—in the 2025 SA20 season, and dazzled with 397 runs in 12 games at a strike rate of 166.80. His best knock? A blistering 97, underlining his ability to lead an innings or explode at the death.

In the global T20 circuit, Pretorius has racked up 911 runs from 33 games, averaging 27.60 and striking at 147.17. He has six half-centuries to his name, a testament to his consistency and flair.

From U19 Stardom to IPL Spotlight

Pretorius first turned heads at the ICC U19 World Cup last year. Representing South Africa, he emerged as the team’s top scorer with 287 runs in six matches, averaging a whopping 57.40. His strike rate of 94.09 in the 50-over format demonstrated his temperament, and his trio of half-centuries hinted at a player ready for the senior stage.

His inclusion is a calculated gamble—RR are out of the playoff race, but the decision to blood young talent like Pretorius suggests a clear eye on the future.