IPL 2025 Sanju Samson Set to Return RR vs PBKS
Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has been declared fit and is all set to return to the playing XI for their IPL 2025 Match on May 18 against Punjab Kings. After missing five consecutive games due to a side strain, Samson’s comeback comes at a time when RR are desperately looking to revive their dwindling campaign. Here’s a detailed look at the latest updates ahead of this high-stakes encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.
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1. Samson’s Return: A Much-Needed Boost for Struggling Royals
Sanju Samson has passed his fitness test and will feature in the starting XI against PBKS. The wicketkeeper-batter had been sidelined due to a side strain and had also dealt with a finger injury earlier in the season. His absence proved costly for the Royals, who have won just one of their last five matches and are currently placed ninth on the points table, with only three wins from 12 matches.
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2. Emotional Comeback: Samson Opens Up on His Time Away
In the pre-match press conference, Samson shared how difficult it has been for him to sit out and watch his team struggle.
“I passed my fitness test, so I’m available for the game. Yeah, I think ‘frustrating’ is definitely the right word. It’s been very difficult and challenging to watch the games from the dugout. I missed out on a lot of crucial matches, which made it even tougher,” said Samson.
He further added how he has tried to stay mentally strong despite the setbacks.
“Mentally, it was hard to see the team losing and not be able to contribute on the field. But these things are part of a cricketing career. I’m trying to take it in my stride and focus on the positives.”
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3. Riyan Parag to Hand Back Captaincy After Stellar Knock
In Samson’s absence, Riyan Parag led the side and performed admirably with the bat, scoring a brilliant 95 in their previous outing against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, with Samson’s return, the young all-rounder will now step down as captain and resume his role as a middle-order batter.
Parag’s form has been one of the few bright spots for Rajasthan this season, and fans will be eager to see how the duo of Samson and Parag performs together in this must-win match.
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4. Bowling Woes Continue for Rajasthan Royals
RR’s bowling attack has been a massive letdown in IPL 2025. They currently possess the worst bowling average (52.1) in the entire tournament. The absence of Sandeep Sharma and Jofra Archer due to injuries has exposed their lack of depth and experience in the pace department.
With bowlers leaking runs and struggling to pick wickets in the powerplay and death overs, the Royals will have to rely heavily on their spin attack and hope for a better show in this upcoming match.
5. Punjab Kings March Towards Playoffs Under Shreyas Iyer
The Punjab Kings, under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, are having a dream season. With 15 points from 11 games, they are well on track for a top-two finish. A win in just two of their remaining three games will guarantee them a spot in the playoffs.
PBKS have shown consistency and resilience throughout the season, with strong performances in both departments. Their game plan has revolved around aggressive starts and disciplined bowling, making them one of the most balanced teams in IPL 2025.
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6. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh: The Uncapped Heroes
One of the biggest success stories for Punjab this season has been the opening duo of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh. These uncapped Indian batters have lit up the powerplay overs with fearless hitting and quick-fire partnerships, often setting the tone for Punjab’s big totals.
Their form at the top has allowed PBKS to dominate games early and puts them in a strong position heading into this match against a struggling RR bowling attack.
7. Overseas Concerns for Punjab Kings
Despite their good form, Punjab Kings face a few squad concerns. Key overseas players Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis are unavailable for this clash, which could lead to opportunities for fresh faces like Mitchell Owen or Kyle Jamieson to make their IPL debut.
These changes could test Punjab’s bench strength, but with momentum on their side, they are still tipped to start as favourites against the Royals.
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8. Head-to-Head Record: RR vs PBKS
Historically, the Rajasthan Royals have had the upper hand over Punjab Kings in the IPL, but recent form tilts the scales in favour of PBKS.
• Total Matches: 26
• RR Wins: 15
• PBKS Wins: 11
However, current form and team confidence may count for more than past records in this critical match.
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9. What’s at Stake?
• Rajasthan Royals must win both of their remaining games to even have a slim chance of making it to the playoffs.
• Punjab Kings, on the other hand, will confirm their qualification with one more win and can aim for a top-two finish if they win both upcoming matches.
It’s a do-or-die situation for RR, while PBKS will aim to maintain their momentum and seal their place in the top bracket.
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10. Final Thoughts: Samson’s Return Could Spark a Turnaround
Sanju Samson’s comeback could not have come at a better time for Rajasthan Royals. While the road to the playoffs seems unlikely, a strong finish to the season could offer some redemption. For PBKS, consistency and composure will be the key as they chase a spot in the top two.
All eyes will be on the Sawai Mansingh Stadium this Sunday, May 18, as two teams with vastly different campaigns collide in what promises to be an entertaining contest.
