IPL 2025 Retention: Rajasthan Royals eyeing to Keep Three Players, Two Massive Names Missing

Rajasthan Royals are looking to retain three players ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, as per reports.

Rahul Dravid, the former Indian cricketer and 2024 T20 World Cup-winning coach, has returned as RR's head coach. Dravid, along with Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara and other key members, is deeply involved in discussions to finalize their choices for retention and the Right-to-Match (RTM) card.

Rajasthan Royals eyeing to retain 3 Indian players

As per reports, the Royals are interested in keeping three players ahead of the auction. Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Riyan Parag are the players who are poised to extend their stay at the franchise. These players have been integral to the team, showcasing their talent and contributing significantly to RR's performances in past seasons.

The RR franchise is not only focusing on retaining its core players but also considering strategic picks through the Right-to-Match (RTM) card. They are reportedly looking to use the RTM card for Yuzvendra Chahal, the experienced spinner who has been with RR since IPL 2022. The leg-spinner showcased his mettle with 18 wickets for the Royals in IPL 2024, which also earned him a place in the India squad for the T20 World Cup.

Leading the charge for RR once again will be captain Sanju Samson, whose recent T20I performances have been nothing short of spectacular. Notably, his explosive century against Bangladesh in Hyderabad has set high expectations for his performance in IPL 2025. Samson's leadership and form will be crucial as RR aim for glory in the upcoming season.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old opener, despite a moderate IPL 2024 season, is expected to be retained. Riyan Parag, another player likely to be retained, has proven his mettle in IPL 2024 by scoring 573 runs in 15 matches. His performances have been key in several of RR's victories, showcasing his ability as a valuable all-rounder.

Jos Buttler, Avesh Khan not in RR Plans

Rajasthan's English batter Jos Buttler is surprisingly not in the list for retentions. The Englishman has been a prolific scorer for them in the past but the Royals may ship him off to the auction. Avesh Khan, who was the highest wicket-taker for them in IPL 2024, is also likely to be released. The Indian pacer took 19 wickets for them last season, a feat which earned him a place among the India standbys for the T20 World Cup.