IPL 2025: Why is Sanju Samson Not Playing for Rajasthan Royals Today against RCB? When will he Return?

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Sanju Samson is not captaining Rajasthan Royals today in the IPL 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru today (Thursday, April 24).

Although this has been an occurrence along the season, he is not in the RR Impact Player list as well. Samson is completely left out of the Rajasthan Royals team for the match against RCB at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The stylish right-hander has not travelled with the team to Bengaluru and will miss the match due to an abdominal injury, confirmed by team officials.

In Samson's absence, Riyan Parag will lead the side. The 22-year-old from Assam has already captained RR earlier this season when Samson was out with a finger injury. This marks another test for Parag's leadership as the Royals desperately seek a turnaround after a string of close losses that have left them languishing in the bottom half of the points table.

Why is Sanju Samson Not Playing Today?

Sanju Samson suffered an abdominal strain during the intense Super Over defeat against Delhi Capitals last week. The injury, though not serious, has required him to undergo a brief rehabilitation period in Jaipur under the close supervision of the franchise's medical staff. As a precautionary measure, the Royals' management has decided not to risk him in back-to-back matches and that is why he is not in action today.

When will Sanju Samson Return to Action for RR?

According to sources close to the team, Samson is expected to return within the next 7-10 days, depending on his recovery progress. He could potentially be back in action for RR's home fixture next week, although the final decision will hinge on clearance from the medical team.

Riyan Parag mentioned at Toss against RCB that there is an abdominal tear for Samson and the management is taking game by game as the Kerala player continues to recover.

His absence tonight is a significant blow for Rajasthan, not only from a batting perspective but also in terms of on-field guidance. The franchise, however, will hope Parag and other senior players step up to keep their playoff hopes alive. They are currently struggling in the IPL 2025 and a defeat would almost mean curtains for the Royals.