Thu Mar 20 05:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Parag to Captain Rajasthan Royals for First Three IPL Matches
**Hyderabad, India** – Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Riyan Parag will captain the team for their first three Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 matches. This announcement comes as regular captain Sanju Samson continues his recovery from a left thumb fracture sustained in January.
Samson, who will feature as a batter in the opening games, has yet to receive medical clearance from the BCCI for wicket-keeping duties. Dhruv Jurel will take over wicket-keeping responsibilities in his absence.
The 23-year-old Parag’s captaincy debut could make him the third-youngest Indian IPL captain, after Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina. He will lead the Royals against SunRisers Hyderabad on Sunday in Hyderabad, followed by matches against Kolkata Knight Riders (March 26th) and Chennai Super Kings (March 30th).
Samson’s injury occurred during an India vs. England T20I match in January, where he was struck by a delivery from teammate Jofra Archer. He has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Parag’s appointment comes after he missed most of the domestic season following India’s tour of South Africa, playing only one Ranji Trophy match in January.
First Piper 