Image: Sandeep Sharma hints at RR turmoil as Samson’s injury woes continue / © Firstpost
After the Rajasthan Royals’ fifth straight defeat in IPL 2025, pacer Sandeep Sharma voiced concerns over the absence of skipper Sanju Samson, who’s out due to recurring injuries. Samson started the season as a batter owing to a finger issue, returned briefly to lead in three games, but was sidelined again with a rib injury after a knock of 31 against Delhi Capitals on April 16. With Riyan Parag captaining in his place, RR has struggled, slipping to eighth in the standings with just two wins from nine matches.
In their latest outing, they fell short by 11 runs against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, despite strong efforts from Yashasvi Jaiswal (49 off 19) and Dhruv Jurel (47 off 34). RCB had earlier posted 205/5, led by Virat Kohli (70 off 42) and Devdutt Padikkal (50 off 27). RR’s playoff hopes now hinge on winning all their remaining games — any more losses or washouts will likely knock them out of contention.