Rajasthan Royals (RR) are aiming to break their 17-year title drought in IPL 2025. The inaugural champions of IPL 2008, led by the legendary Shane Warne, have struggled to reclaim glory ever since. This season, under Sanju Samson’s leadership, RR has revamped their squad and is looking stronger than ever.
During the IPL 2025 auction held in Jeddah, RR made some bold moves, acquiring quality players like Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Tushar Deshpande. These signings have significantly bolstered their squad.
Predicted playing XI of Rajasthan Royals (RR) for IPL 2025
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – The Explosive Opener
Yashasvi Jaiswal will be opening the innings for RR in IPL 2025. The left-handed batter was retained for a whopping Rs 18 crore, reflecting the franchise’s confidence in him. Since his debut in 2020, Jaiswal has been a prolific scorer, amassing 1607 runs in 53 matches. His aggressive approach at the top will be crucial for RR’s success.
- Sanju Samson (C & WK) – The Leader & Wicketkeeper
Sanju Samson continues as the captain and wicketkeeper of Rajasthan Royals. Retained for Rs 18 crore, the Kerala batter is RR’s most experienced player and their all-time leading run-scorer. With 4419 runs in 168 IPL matches, Samson’s ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him indispensable to the team.
- Nitish Rana – The Middle-Order Mainstay
Acquired for Rs 4.20 crore in the auction, former KKR captain Nitish Rana brings valuable experience and flexibility to RR’s middle order. With 2636 runs in 107 IPL matches and the ability to roll his arm over for a few overs, Rana adds depth to the team.
- Riyan Parag – The Rising Star
Riyan Parag, retained for Rs 14 crore, was RR’s top scorer in IPL 2024 with 573 runs. The 23-year-old also made his international debut this year, proving his worth as a reliable middle-order batter. His ability to play spin well and provide part-time bowling options makes him an asset to RR.
- Dhruv Jurel – The Emerging Finisher
Another young talent retained for Rs 14 crore, Dhruv Jurel has shown promise as a finisher. With 347 runs in 28 matches, his role will be crucial in providing stability and firepower in the lower middle order.
- Shimron Hetmyer – The Power-Hitter
West Indian batter Shimron Hetmyer was retained for Rs 11 crore and is expected to continue his role as RR’s finisher. With 1243 runs in 72 IPL matches, Hetmyer’s ability to clear the ropes in the death overs will be invaluable.
- Wanindu Hasaranga – The All-Round Weapon
Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was bought for Rs 5.25 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. One of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket, Hasaranga has picked up 35 wickets in 26 IPL matches. His leg-spin and lower-order hitting ability add significant balance to the squad.
- Jofra Archer – The Speed Sensation
Returning to RR for Rs 12.50 crore, Jofra Archer brings pace and match-winning ability to the bowling attack. The English pacer played for RR from 2018-2021, taking 46 wickets in 35 matches. His express pace and ability to bowl in all phases make him a key player.
- Sandeep Sharma – The Swing Specialist
Retained for Rs 4 crore, Sandeep Sharma is a seasoned campaigner with 137 wickets in 127 IPL matches. His expertise with the new ball and effectiveness in the powerplay overs make him a vital part of RR’s bowling lineup.
- Fazalhaq Farooqi – The Afghan Ace
RR roped in Afghanistan’s left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi for Rs 2 crore. The 24-year-old was one of the leading wicket-takers in the T20 World Cup 2024 and has already impressed with his ability to swing the ball early in the innings.
- Tushar Deshpande – The New-Ball Striker
Former CSK pacer Tushar Deshpande, bought for Rs 6.50 crore, will partner with Farooqi and Archer in the pace attack. With 42 wickets in 36 IPL matches, he will be responsible for providing early breakthroughs for RR.
Rajasthan Royals have assembled a well-rounded squad for IPL 2025, blending experienced campaigners with promising young talent. Their focus on bowlers in the auction complements the already strong batting core. With a dynamic leader in Sanju Samson and match-winners across all departments, RR looks set for a competitive season ahead. If their key players stay fit and perform consistently, they have a strong chance of making a deep run in the tournament.
Rajasthan Royals (RR) full squad for IPL 2025
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Riyan Parag, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nitish Rana, Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Rathore, Jofra Archer, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Sandeep Sharma, Kwena Maphaka, Akash Madhwal, Tushar Deshpande, Ashok Sharma, Maheesh Theekshana, Kumar Kartikeya.
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