Sanju Samson Returns to NCA for Fitness Tests Ahead of IPL 2025 Captaincy Decision

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru following his team’s IPL 2025 match against Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati. Samson, who sustained a fracture to his right index finger earlier this year, was cleared to play only as a pure batter in the first three games of the tournament. As a result, Riyan Parag temporarily took over captaincy duties for Rajasthan Royals during these matches. Samson played as an impact player in RR’s first three games, scoring 66, 13, and 20 in his innings. However, he has now returned to the Center of Excellence (CoE) at the NCA for final fitness tests. The results of these tests will determine whether Samson can resume wicketkeeping duties and reclaim his role as RR’s full-time captain. If cleared, he is expected to lead Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming match against Punjab Kings on April 5 in Mullanpur. Samson underwent surgery on his right index finger on February 11 and has been recovering si...