Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has backed stand-in skipper Riyan Parag to lead the team effectively in his absence in the Indian Premier League.
Riyan Parag was named the Royals captain for their first three matches of IPL 2025 as Samson is still recovering from a right index finger injury sustained during the England series.
Despite being deemed fit enough to contribute as a specialist bowler, Samson is yet to be cleared for his regular wicketkeeping duties.
"Coming into the season not at 100 per cent feels a bit different, but the team looks good. We are also happy to have Rahul Dravid back with us," Samson was quoted saying by PTI ahead of Rajasthan’s opening match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday.
"I won’t be Rajasthan Royals' captain forever. There has to be someone groomed for the future. The franchise has developed multiple leaders, and for the next three games, we believe Riyan Parag is ready and capable of leading the side,” he added.
Riyan Parag, at just 23, is on the cusp of history and is slated to become the Royals’ youngest captain and the fifth-youngest skipper in IPL history when he steps out for the toss in Hyderabad.
Samson also picked out 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi for high praise. All eyes will be on the teenager who is already the youngest player to bag an IPL contract.
"Age doesn’t matter, his talent does. Our scouts tracked him in U-19 matches, and his shot-making ability stood out. He is lucky to be at Rajasthan Royals and under the right hands of Rahul Dravid. This team knows how to nurture young Indian talent," Samson said.
The Royals skipper also acknowledged the team’s collective responsibility for developing Suryavanshi beyond just the IPL season.
"It’s on us to take care of him, not just during these two months but also in the 10 months away from IPL. He has something special, and Indian cricket will benefit from it in the coming years."
Samson, who led an experienced Royals squad over the past three seasons, also accepted that faces a new challenge with a younger group this season but also welcomed it with open arms.
"Now, I’m leading a younger group. But these players have the hunger to prove themselves, and that energy can be a huge advantage," he noted.
Samson's confidence in Parag, Suryavanshi and a young squad reflects the Royals' core philosophy of nurturing young talents and trusting them to rise to the occasion when needed.
