Sanju Samson will no longer play as an impact substitute for the Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing IPL 2025, as he is expected to return as the team's captain and participate completely in the game. Samson, who was recovering from a finger injury, batted just in the first three games, while Riyan Parag captained the squad. RR won only one of the three matches.

Samson stated during the pre-match news conference ahead of RR's encounter against PBKS that he is delighted and eager to be back and totally fit for the game. The RR skipper also stated that he would take over the gloves from Dhruv Jurel, who had kept the wickets during his absence.

"I am very happy and excited to be back and to be fully fit, to keep wickets and to play as a normal player. I am really looking forward to it, and it feels very exciting," said Samson in the pre-match press conference.

Samson said he was surprised to miss three games, but sitting out offered him a new perspective on things and how to approach the game.

"Honestly, I was surprised. I thought I might miss one game and come back, but missing three was unexpected. Sitting out gave me a different perspective — watching the games from the dugout, seeing my teammates, my younger brothers, out there fighting. It was a different experience and a learning curve. I’m very happy and excited to be back, fully fit, keeping wicket, and contributing as a player again," said Samson.

With his full return to RR, Samson will now serve as captain, wicketkeeper, and opener for the team. The RR star described it as a fresh challenge that he is looking forward to. The 30-year-old stated that each season of the IPL adds something fresh to his profession.

"Yeah, it’s definitely new and quite challenging. Captaining, opening, and keeping — it’s a lot to handle. But I’m really looking forward to it. Every IPL season brings something new to my career, and I’ve accepted this challenge. I’m learning from it and excited to see how I can contribute in all three departments," said Samson.

(PTI inputs)