Sanju Samson Doubtful for Match Against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals could be dealt another blow ahead of their clash with Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday, as skipper Sanju Samson is now a doubt for the game. The wicketkeeper-batter picked up a suspected side strain during RR’s last outing against Delhi Capitals and is currently awaiting scan results.

RR head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed the situation on Friday, saying the team will make a call once they get more clarity. “Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So, we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today, so we are waiting for the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of (the injury), we'll take a decision going forward, and we'll see what happens,” Dravid explained. 

Samson was looking in good touch, having scored 31 off 19 balls, before he pulled away from a delivery by Vipraj Nigam. It was clear something wasn’t right — he looked visibly uncomfortable and signalled for the physio after clutching the left side of his ribs. While he did face one more delivery, he soon retired hurt and didn’t return to bat. 

It’s another frustrating turn for the 30-year-old, who had just returned to the playing XI after recovering from a finger injury and surgery. For the first three games of the season, he was used as an Impact Player while he completed his rehab under the supervision of the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. In his absence earlier in the season, Dhruv Jurel kept the gloves, while Riyan Parag stepped up to lead the side. 

Under Parag’s captaincy, RR started off on shaky ground, losing back-to-back games against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders. However, they did bounce back with a thrilling win over Chennai Super Kings. They also managed a win over Punjab Kings but have since stumbled, suffering three straight defeats. They now sit in eighth place on the table with just two wins from seven matches. 

After the match against DC, Samson told the broadcasters, “It feels alright. I was just not ready to come back and bat here. We'll observe it tomorrow and see how it is.” With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, RR will be hoping for some positive news from the scans. If Samson is ruled out again, it could be a huge setback for a side still trying to find its footing this season. 

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