"Time to move forward" – Samson focused on building strengths of revamped Royals squad

"We Have to Let Go of the Past" – Samson Focused on Building a New-Look Royals for IPL 2025

As Rajasthan Royals (RR) gear up for IPL 2025, the squad looks significantly different from last season — particularly in the bowling department. With several seasoned players moving on, captain Sanju Samson is embracing the challenge of shaping a fresh, younger unit and is confident in the potential of his new-look side.

RR still retain the services of experienced pacer Sandeep Sharma, but the departures of R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, and Jos Buttler have left sizeable gaps in the team’s core. Buttler’s exit, in particular, was a difficult call. Samson admitted it was one of the toughest decisions made during the retention phase, and it remains a hard reality to process.

Speaking ahead of RR's season opener, Samson addressed the transition candidly:
"To be honest, that’s the challenge the IPL has thrown at me. Over the last three years, I was surrounded by some of the greatest cricketers in the world. Now, I’m surrounded by younger players — and we’re looking at it in a positive way. They have the fire, and they want to show the world what they’re made of."

The Royals' bowling attack this season features a mix of returning and new faces. Jofra Archer is back after missing the last few seasons, while Maheesh Theekshana adds variety. The Indian contingent includes promising names like Akash Madhwal, Tushar Deshpande, and Kumar Kartikeya.

Samson stressed the importance of adapting quickly to this new reality:
"We have to let go of the past — forget the players we had, the combinations we used. This is a different team. We need fresh eyes, fresh thinking. What happened last year doesn’t apply here."

As captain, Samson prefers empowering his bowlers, encouraging them to express their strengths and make tactical decisions collaboratively.
"I trust my bowlers. I want them to tell me what they’re confident in bowling. It’s about combining my experience with their instincts. As the season progresses, we’ll better understand their strengths and areas to improve."

He acknowledged that conditions remain challenging for bowlers, especially during powerplays, even with rule changes like allowing a ball change after ten overs in the second innings to offset dew.
"In the powerplay, bowlers are being targeted heavily. That’s where the game is evolving. Slower balls, bouncers, new variations — these are crucial now. Rules like saliva use and the ball change help, but it’s still going to be a high-scoring season."

“Vaibhav is Something Special” – Samson on IPL’s Youngest Signing

Among the most talked-about additions to RR’s squad is 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest player ever to be picked in the IPL. RR secured him for INR 1.1 crore, and Samson believes the young prodigy is destined for something big.

"He’s a special talent," Samson said. "We saw that during trials, and our scouts had already tracked him through Under-19 games. The range of shots he plays at his age is incredible."

Samson praised the support system in place at RR, highlighting the presence of Rahul Dravid and other mentors as key to the youngster's development.
"He’s lucky to be here, and we feel a great responsibility to guide him — not just during the IPL but in the months outside it too. He’s in good hands, and I believe Indian cricket will see something special from him in the future."

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