The Rajasthan Royals head into IPL 2025 with a well-retained core and some smart additions to their squad. They stuck with six key players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, and Sandeep Sharma, showcasing their confidence in these stars.
However, limited funds at the auction meant tough decisions, particularly in acquiring top Indian players. Despite this, the Rajasthan Royals made notable signings, including Jofra Archer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nitish Rana, and Tushar Deshpande, all of whom bring valuable experience and skill to the team.
With these additions, the Rajasthan Royals look to field a competitive starting XI, blending established names and emerging talent. While the auction strategy meant compromises, the Rajasthan Royals have built a squad that could punch above its weight in IPL 2025. Let’s analyse how their team shapes up for the season ahead.
STRENGTHS
Strong Core: Rajasthan Royals have retained their six key players from last season. These players not only performed brilliantly but also developed a strong understanding of the team. This familiarity ensures RR knows how to maximize their potential, making them a cohesive and well-prepared unit.
Batting Powerhouse: With Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Sanju Samson likely to open, RR’s top order is set to fire from the start. Both are in sublime form, making them a nightmare for bowlers. Adding Nitish Rana at No. 3 could be a good option, followed by last year’s standout performer Riyan Parag. Finishers like Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer round out a deadly batting lineup capable of chasing or setting big totals with ease.
WEAKNESSES
Lack of Batting Depth: RR has a strong top and middle order, but their lower order isn’t as reliable. If key batters like Jaiswal, Samson, or Hetmyer get out early, the team could struggle to put up or chase big scores. This puts a lot of pressure on the top order to perform every game.
No Quality Indian Spinners: Last year, RR had a great spin duo with Chahal and Ashwin, but both are missing this season. They’ve added overseas spinners like Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, but playing two foreign spinners could affect the team’s balance. Not having a top Indian spinner might be a problem, especially on pitches that support spin bowling.
OPPORTUNITIES
Winning the Title: Rajasthan Royals won the first-ever IPL trophy back in 2008. Since then, despite having strong teams and playing good cricket, they haven’t managed to lift the championship again. This year, with Rahul Dravid returning as their coach after leading India to the T20 World Cup 2024 victory, they have a great chance to rewrite history and claim the title once more.
Young Indian Players: Rajasthan Royals have always been a platform for nurturing young Indian talent. This year, they’ve brought in Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a promising 13-year-old prodigy. It’s a golden opportunity for RR to groom him into a future star while continuing their legacy of promoting youth in cricket.
THREATS
Injury-Prone Players: RR has built a strong team, but their success heavily depends on key players staying fit. Jofra Archer and Wanindu Hasaranga, while excellent performers, have a history of injuries and have missed several IPL games in recent seasons. Their availability throughout the tournament remains a concern.
Lack of Quality Backups: If any key player gets injured or struggles with form, RR might face challenges due to a lack of strong backups in their squad. The team’s bench strength isn’t as deep, making it harder to replace key players without affecting the overall balance and performance.
Rajasthan Royals squad for the IPL 2025
Retained Players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Sandeep Sharma
Players Picked in the Auction: Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Nitish Rana, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kwena Maphaka, Akash Madhwal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Kumar Kartikeya, Kunal Singh Rathore, Ashok Sharma
Rajasthan Royals Probable XI and Impact Player for the IPL 2025
Probable Starting XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Shubham Dubey, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma (Impact).
CONCLUSION & RATINGS OUT OF 10
Rajasthan Royals have formed a competitive squad for IPL 2025 by retaining a strong core and making smart picks in the auction. However, the reliance on key players staying fit and the lack of experienced Indian spinners might pose challenges during the season. The presence of match-winners like Riyan Parag, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, combined with fresh talents, provides hope for a strong campaign.
With Rahul Dravid at the helm, they have the guidance to aim for their second IPL title, but it will require consistent performances and strategic execution. RR’s season will depend on maximizing their strengths and addressing key weaknesses effectively. Do they have what it takes to reclaim IPL glory? Time will tell.
RATING: 7.5/10