3 Key Playing XI Decisions Rajasthan Royals have to make for IPL 2025

Here are three starting XI decisions the Rajasthan Royals have to make ahead of IPL 2025.

Rajasthan Royals IPL 2025: Key Starting XI Decisions

Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural IPL champions, are gearing up for another season of high expectations. After a strong campaign in 2022, the team, led by Sanju Samson, is aiming to clinch their second IPL title. Here are the key starting XI decisions RR needs to make before their IPL 2025 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23:

1. Akash Madhwal vs. Tushar Deshpande: Who Gets the Nod?

• Pacer Dilemma:
  • RR has secured two new pacers for IPL 2025: Akash Madhwal and Tushar Deshpande.
  • Jofra Archer is already confirmed to be in the squad, but there is uncertainty around whether Madhwal or Deshpande will make the starting XI.
• Deshpande’s Experience:
  • Deshpande, with 42 wickets in 36 IPL matches, brings more experience compared to Madhwal’s 19 wickets from 13 matches.
  • The Royals may opt for Deshpande as a starter, with Madhwal potentially being used as an impact substitute.
• Auction Cost:
  • Deshpande was bought for Rs 6.50 crore, while Madhwal was acquired for Rs 1.20 crore, indicating a higher investment in Deshpande.

2. Sanju Samson to Open with Yashasvi Jaiswal?

• Opening Slot Change:
  • With the departure of Jos Buttler ahead of IPL 2025, the Rajasthan Royals are left with limited options for their opening pair.
  • Skipper Sanju Samson is likely to open with Yashasvi Jaiswal, despite recent injury concerns for Samson.
• Samson’s Fitness:
  • Sanju Samson recently underwent surgery for a finger injury but is expected to recover in time for the season opener.
• Nitish Rana as an Alternative:
  • If Samson‘s fitness becomes an issue, Nitish Rana could potentially open alongside Jaiswal.
  • Rana has shown his adaptability and calmness in handling pressure situations in the past, making him a viable alternative for the opener’s role.

3. Shubham Dubey as an Impact Player?

• Impact Player Potential:
  • Shubham Dubey, a middle-order batter, could be a valuable impact player for RR in IPL 2025.
  • Dubey impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 134 runs from four innings at a remarkable strike rate of 181.08.
• Limited IPL appearances:
  • He played just four matches for Rajasthan Royals in 2024, scoring 33 runs. However, his impressive domestic form makes him a strong contender for a spot in the playing XI.
• Backup Option:
  • While Dubey may not be a permanent starter, he offers a solid backup option in the middle order and could provide crucial firepower when needed.

Conclusion

As Rajasthan Royals gear up for IPL 2025, Sanju Samson and his squad face several important decisions that could shape their campaign. Whether it’s deciding between Akash Madhwal and Tushar Deshpande for the bowling attack, finalizing the opening pair, or utilizing Shubham Dubey as an impact player, RR’s choices will be crucial in their quest for a second IPL title.