Rajasthan Royals announce surprise captain for first 3 matches, Sanju Samson to play in THIS role

Parag to lead RR for first 3 games, Samson to be seen in this role

Rajasthan Royals have faced a major blow right before the beginning of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League. RR’s campaign will commence from March 23 with them set to lock horns against last season’s finalists Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, Sanju Samson won’t be leading the side for the first 3 games as he is still recovering from a finger injury.

In his place, India all-rounder Riyan Parag will be captaining the side for the first 3 matches. The franchise said Samson is yet to get the clearance for wicketkeeping and fielding duties. Despite this, he won’t miss any matches and will play as a specialist batter.

“Sanju Samson, an integral part of the Royals set-up, will remain a key contributor with the bat till he gets cleared for wicket-keeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit,” RR said in a statement.

Samson sustained the injury during India’s T20I series against England in February, which ruled him out of the remainder of the series and required surgical intervention.

RR’s decision to give the captaincy to Parag shows that they have a lot of confidence in him and his leadership. The all-rounder has led his state side Assam in many domestic competitions.