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Tag: RR

  • IPL 2025: Salary of Rajasthan Royals (RR) players; check out how much Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal earn

    IPL 2025: Salary of Rajasthan Royals (RR) players; check out how much Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal earn

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a renewed sense of determination, eager to secure their second IPL title after their triumph in 2008. Despite a strong start in IPL 2024, the team faltered in the latter half, missing out on a deep playoff run. This setback prompted significant reinforcements at the 2025 mega auction, ensuring a well-balanced squad that can handle pressure situations better. The frustration of not converting potential into success has fueled their desire to go all the way this season.

    Strategic leadership shift: Rahul Dravid’s influence

    A major change for RR in IPL 2025 is the appointment of Rahul Dravid as head coach. Dravid’s arrival signals a shift in tactical approach, emphasizing mental resilience, adaptability, and strategic consistency – areas where Rajasthan have struggled in previous seasons. His vast coaching experience, including guiding India to multiple ICC finals, is expected to bring much-needed stability and direction to the team. With Sanju Samson retaining captaincy, the Royals now have a strong leadership duo aiming to instill discipline and execute match-winning strategies.

    Core players and key additions strengthening RR

    RR have retained a solid core, with Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel forming the backbone of their batting unit. These players have been instrumental in Rajasthan’s recent campaigns, providing explosiveness at the top and stability in the middle order.

    To strengthen their squad further, RR made two significant signings at the auction:

    • Jofra Archer – The return of Archer adds raw pace and firepower to the bowling attack. If fully fit, his ability to bowl quick, aggressive spells in the powerplay and at the death will be a game-changer. His presence also provides much-needed balance to the fast-bowling unit, which lacked consistency last season.
    • Nitish Rana – A valuable left-handed batter who can slot in both at the top and in the middle order. Rana’s aggressive batting style and ability to counter spin make him a versatile asset in RR’s lineup.

    Also READ: Rajasthan Royals IPL 2025: 5 players to watch out for ft. Yashasvi Jaiswal

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) player salaries for IPL 2025 

    • Sanju Samson – INR 18 crore
    • Yashasvi Jaiswal – INR 18 crore
    • Riyan Parag – INR 14 crore
    • Dhruv Jurel – INR 14 crore
    • Shimron Hetmyer (overseas) – INR 11 crore
    • Sandeep Sharma – INR 4 crore
    • Jofra Archer (overseas) – INR 12.50 crore
    • Maheesh Theekshana (overseas) – INR 4.40 crore
    • Wanindu Hasaranga (overseas) – INR 5.25 crore
    • Akash Madhwal – INR 1.20 crore
    • Kumar Kartikeya – INR 30 lakh
    • Nitish Rana – INR 4.20 crore
    • Tushar Deshpande – INR 6.50 crore
    • Shubham Dubey – INR 80 lakh
    • Yudhvir Charak – INR 35 lakh
    • Fazalhaq Farooqi (overseas) – INR 2 crore
    • Vaibhav Suryavanshi – INR 1.10 crore
    • Kwena Maphaka (overseas) – INR 1.50 crore
    • Kunal Rathore – INR 30 lakh
    • Ashok Sharma – INR 30 lakh

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals’ best playing XI and impact players

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  • Rajasthan Royals Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Rajasthan Royals Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) are heading into IPL 2025 with hope and optimism, having refurbished their squad. They have a settled skipper Sanju Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid at the helm to look forward to turning around past performances while learning from previous errors.

    Key players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in explosive touch, and Jofra Archer, back from injury, are crucial to RR’s game plan this season. The franchise has made efforts to shore up its bowling attack, bringing in players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. But the lack of big guns like Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal makes one wonder about depth in the batting order.

    With a balanced mix of youth and experience, the Royals are poised for a competitive season, looking to make a significant playoff push and potentially secure their second IPL title.

    IPL 2025 schedule for Rajasthan Royals

    RRR will begin their campaign against the last year’s runner-up Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 23 at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad.

    Here is their complete schedule:

    • March 23 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad at Hyderabad (3:30 pm IST)
    • March 26 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders at Guwahati (7:30 pm IST)
    • March 30 – vs Chennai Super Kings at Guwahati (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 5 – vs Punjab Kings at New Chandigarh (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 9 – vs Gujarat Titans at Ahmedabad (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 13 – vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Jaipur (3:30 pm IST)
    • April 16 – vs Delhi Capitals at Delhi (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 19 – vs Lucknow Super Giants at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 24 – vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Bengaluru (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 28 – vs Gujarat Titans at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • May 1 – vs Mumbai Indians at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • May 4 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders at Kolkata (3:30 pm IST)
    • May 12 – vs Chennai Super Kings at Chennai (3:30 pm IST)
    • May 16 – vs Punjab Kings at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)

    *IST= GMT + 5:30 hrs

    Also READ: SRH Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule – Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    RR full squad for IPL 2025

    Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Singh Rathore, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Jofra Archer, Kumar Kartikeya, Kwena Maphaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Yudhvir Singh

    Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    All RR matches would be broadcasted on Star Sports Network in India. For live streaming, the fans could view the JioHotstar app and website. The matches would also be live on various international channels such as WillowTV and Kayo Sports depending on their respective locations.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Rajasthan Royals’ best playing XI and impact players

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  • Complete squads of all 10 teams after the IPL 2025 mega auction

    Complete squads of all 10 teams after the IPL 2025 mega auction

    The IPL 2025 mega auction, held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, concluded with significant excitement as all ten franchises finalized their squads. A total of 182 players were sold during the two-day event at the Abadi Al Johar Arena, with franchises spending a collective ₹639.15 crore to strengthen their teams for the upcoming season.

    Here’s a comprehensive look at the complete squads of all ten teams following the IPL 2025 mega auction:

    Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, Noor Ahmad, Ravichandran Ashwin, Devon Conway, Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Shaik Rashid, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Deepak Hooda, Gurjanpreet Singh, Nathan Ellis, Jamie Overton, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ramakrishnan Ghosh, Shreyas Gopal, Vansh Bedi, Andre Siddarth.

    Delhi Capitals (DC)

    KL Rahul, Harry Brook, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Karun Nair, Abhishek Porel, Tristian Stubbs, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natrajan, Mitchell Starc, Sameer Rizvi, Ashutosh Sharma, Mohit Sharma, Faf du Plessis, Mukesh Kumar, Darshan Nalkande, Vipraj Nigam, Dushmanta Chameera, Donovan Ferreira, Ajay Mandal, Manvanth Kumar, Tripurana Vijay, Madhav Tiwari.

    Gujarat Titans (GT)

    Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler, B. Sai Sudharshan, Shahrukh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Nishant Sindhu, Mahipal Lomror, Kumar Kushagra, Anuj Rawat, Manav Suthar, Washington Sundar, Gerald Coetzee, Mohmmad Arshad Khan, Gurnoor Singh Brar, Sherfane Rutherford, R. Sai Kishore, Ishant Sharma, Jayant Yadav, Glenn Phillips, Kareem Janat, Kulwant Khejroliya.

    Also READ: In pics and videos – Meet Kavya Maran, the gorgeous SRH owner at IPL 2025 mega auction

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

    Rinku Singh, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh, Andre Russell, Anrich Nortje, Harshit Rana, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Mayank Markhande, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Spencer Johnson, Luvnith Sisodia, Ajinkya Rahane, Anukul Roy, Moeen Ali, Umran Malik.

    Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

    Rishabh Pant, David Miller, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Ravi Bishnoi, Abdul Samad, Aryan Juyal, Akash Deep, Himmat Singh, M Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Akash Singh, Shamar Joseph, Prince Yadav, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Arshin Kulkarni, Matthew Breetzke.

    Mumbai Indians (MI)

    Hardik Pandya (c), Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Verma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, Allah Ghazanfar, Will Jacks, Ashwani Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Shrijith Krishnan, Raj Angad Bawa, Venkat Satyanarayana Raju, Bevon Jacobs, Arjun Tendulkar, Lizaad Williams, Vignesh Puthhur, Suryakumar Yadav.

    Punjab Kings (PBKS)

    Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Shashank Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur, Marco Jansen, Josh Inglis, Lockie Ferguson, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Pannu, Kuldeep Sen, Priyansh Arya, Aaron Hardie, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Xavier Bartlett, Pyla Avinash, Pravin Dubey, Nehal Wadhera.

    Rajasthan Royals (RR)

    Sanju Samson (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Sandeep Sharma, Jofra Archer, Wainindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Nitish Rana, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Charak, Fazal Farooqi, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kwena Maphaka, Kunal Rathore, Ashok Sharma.

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

    Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee.

    Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

    Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klassen, Nitish Reddy, Ishan Kishan, Mohammad Shami, Harshal Patel, Rahul Chahar, Adam Zampa, Atharva Taide, Abhinav Manohar, Simarjeet Singh, Zeeshan Ansari, Jaydev Unadkat, Brydon Carse, Kamindu Mendis, Aniket Verma, Eshan Malinga, Sachin Baby.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction – Full list of unsold players along with their base price

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  • IPL 2025 [Day 1]: Complete list of players sold at the mega auction with their price

    IPL 2025 [Day 1]: Complete list of players sold at the mega auction with their price

    The first day of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction unfolded with grandeur at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, November 24. With a vast pool of 577 players available for selection, only the top-tier names from the first 12 sets were in focus during the initial phase of the two-day auction. By the end of Day 1, 84 players had gone under the hammer, setting the stage for a high-stakes bidding war between franchises.

    Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer shatter records

    Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant stole the spotlight by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured his services for a staggering INR 27 crore, breaking all previous records. Pant’s explosive batting, leadership potential, and adaptability made him the most sought-after player of the auction, highlighting his immense value in the shortest format.

    Before Pant’s record-breaking deal, Shreyas Iyer briefly held the title of the highest-paid player in IPL history. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired the stylish middle-order batter for INR 26.75 crore. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Iyer’s addition brings balance and stability to PBKS’s batting lineup. Reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines by re-signing all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for a hefty INR amount of over 20 crores. Iyer’s versatility as a hard-hitting batter and a dependable seam-bowling option proved too valuable for KKR to let go. His performances in previous seasons were instrumental in KKR’s success, prompting the franchise to break the bank for him.

    Indian bowlers command high prices: Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh

    Indian bowlers were in high demand, with Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh each fetching INR 18 crore. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired both bowlers, solidifying their bowling lineup. Chahal, the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, and Arshdeep, one of the most promising left-arm pacers in the league, are expected to play crucial roles in PBKS’s title aspirations.

    Day 1 of the IPL 2025 auction showcased the growing value of Indian players in the league. High-profile acquisitions like Pant, Iyer, and Iyer underscored the premium franchises are willing to pay for proven performers and game-changers. As the auction progresses, the focus will shift to uncovering hidden gems and finalizing squads for the highly anticipated season ahead.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, Australia, USA & other countries

    Complete list of players sold at the IPL 2025 mega auction with their price

    1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    • Devon Conway – INR 6.25 CR
    • Rahul Tripathi – INR 3.4 CR
    • Rachin Ravindra (RTM) – INR 4 CR
    • R. Ashwin – INR 9.75 CR
    • Khaleel Ahmed – INR 4.8 CR
    • Noor Ahmad – INR 10 CR
    • Sameer Rizvi – INR 95L
    • Vijay Shankar – INR 1.2 CR

    2. Delhi Capitals (DC)

    • Mitchell Starc – INR 11.75 CR
    • KL Rahul – INR 14 CR
    • Harry Brook – INR 6.25 CR
    • Jake Fraser-McGurk (RTM) – INR 9 CR
    • Karun Nair – INR 50L
    • T Natarajan – INR 10.75 CR
    • Mohit Sharma – INR 2.2 CR
    • Ashutosh Sharma – INR 3.8 CR

    3. Gujarat Titans (GT)

    • Kagiso Rabada – INR 10.75 CR
    • Jos Buttler – INR 15.75 CR
    • Mohammed Siraj – INR 12.25 CR
    • Prasidh Krishna – INR 9.5 CR
    • Nishant Sindhu – INR 30L
    • Kumar Kushagra – INR 65L
    • Manav Suthar – INR 30L

    4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

    • Venkatesh Iyer – INR 23.75 CR
    • Quinton de Kock – INR 3.6 CR
    • Anrich Nortje – INR 6.5 CR
    • Rahmanullah Gurbaz – INR 2 CR
    • Angkrish Raghuvanshi – INR 3 CR
    • Vaibhav Arora – INR 1.8 CR
    • Mayank Markande – INR 30L

    5. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

    • Rishabh Pant – INR 27 CR
    • David Miller – INR 7.5 CR
    • Aiden Markram – INR 2 CR
    • Mitchell Marsh – INR 3.4 CR
    • Avesh Khan – INR 9.75 CR
    • Abdul Samad – INR 4.2 CR
    • Aryan Juyal – INR 30L

    6. Mumbai Indians (MI)

    • Trent Boult – INR 12.5 CR
    • Naman Dhir (RTM) – INR 5.25 CR
    • Robin Minz – INR 65L
    • Karn Sharma – INR 50L

    7. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

    • Arshdeep Singh (RTM) – INR 18 CR
    • Shreyas Iyer – INR 26.75 CR
    • Yuzvendra Chahal – INR 18 CR
    • Marcus Stoinis – INR 11 CR
    • Glenn Maxwell – INR 4.2 CR
    • Nehal Wadhera – INR 4.2 CR
    • Harpreet Brar – INR 1.5 CR
    • Vijaykumar Vyshak – INR 1.8 CR
    • Yash Thakur – INR 1.6 CR
    • Vishnu Vinod – INR 95L

    8. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

    • Jofra Archer – INR 12.5 CR
    • Wanindu Hasaranga – INR 5.25 CR
    • Maheesh Theekshana – INR 4.4 CR
    • Mahipal Lomror – INR 1.7 CR
    • Akash Madhwal – INR 1.2 CR
    • Kumar Kartikeya – INR 30L

    9. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

    • Liam Livingstone – INR 8.75 CR
    • Phil Salt – INR 11.5 CR
    • Jitesh Sharma – INR 11 CR
    • Josh Hazlewood – INR 12.5 CR
    • Anuj Rawat – INR 30L
    • Rasikh Salam Dar – INR 6 CR
    • Suyash Sharma – INR 2.6 CR

    10. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

    • Mohammed Shami – INR 10 CR
    • Harshal Patel – INR 8 CR
    • Rahul Chahar – INR 3.2 CR
    • Adam Zampa – INR 2.4 CR
    • Atharva Taide – INR 30L
    • Abhinav Manohar – INR 3.2 CR
    • Simarjeet Singh – INR 1.5 CR
    • Ishan Kishan – INR 11.25 CR

    Also READ: From Eoin Morgan to Suresh Raina: Here’s the full list of cricket experts for IPL 2025 mega auction

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  • 3 teams who can target Sikandar Raza in the IPL 2025 mega auction

    3 teams who can target Sikandar Raza in the IPL 2025 mega auction

    Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe’s experienced all-rounder and T20I captain, is among the prominent players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a base price of INR 1.25 crores, Raza brings versatility and a wealth of international experience to the table.

    Sikandar Raza in the IPL 2025 Auction

    Raza previously represented Punjab Kings (PBKS) during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Across nine matches, the 38-year-old scored 182 runs, including a match winning half-century. Additionally, he contributed with the ball, taking three wickets, showcasing his ability to influence games in both departments. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Raza is also an effective off-spinner, particularly valuable in subcontinental conditions. His calm temperament and experience in high-pressure situations make him a dependable middle-order option.

    Raza’s skill set makes him an attractive target for franchises seeking a reliable all-rounder who can contribute in multiple phases of the game. His past performances for PBKS have already demonstrated his adaptability and match-winning potential.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Mohammed Shami returns to GT; David Warner joins Virat Kohli’s RCB in K. Srikkanth’s mock auction

    IPL 2025: 3 teams who can target Sikandar Raza in the mega auction

    1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    CSK might target Raza to bolster their all-rounder department, particularly as a backup for aging players like Ravindra Jadeja. Raza’s ability to contribute in middle-order batting and his off-spin adds depth to the team. CSK often looks for experienced, versatile players, aligning with Raza’s profile. His calm temperament can prove valuable in handling pressure situations. With spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk, Raza’s bowling can be a strategic asset. His relatively low base price ensures CSK can secure him without major budget concerns.

    2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

    LSG could target Raza to strengthen their lower middle order and add an all-rounder who can bat and bowl effectively. Raza’s experience on slow pitches suits LSG’s home ground in Lucknow, where spinners play a crucial role. With Nicholas Pooran and other top-order batters handling the early overs, Raza can finish innings or anchor when needed. His off-spin provides an alternative to LSG’s left-arm and leg-spin options. LSG also values overseas players with adaptability, making Raza a perfect fit. His performance for his national side especially in the high-stakes tournament further showcase his ability in high-stakes games.

    3. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

    RR might target Raza to enhance their middle-order stability and provide additional bowling flexibility. RR often relies on dynamic all-rounders who can impact the game with both bat and ball, making Raza a valuable addition. At the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, known for its spin-friendly conditions, Raza’s off-spin could be a game-changer. His ability to counter-attack and finish games in the lower order would complement RR’s aggressive batting philosophy. Additionally, Raza’s leadership experience can benefit a team looking for strategic insights and calmness in pressure scenarios.

    PBKS can use RTM option

    PBKS have retained their Right-to-Match (RTM) option for Raza, which could be a strategic move to bring him back if bidding intensifies. Having already spent two seasons with PBKS, Raza is familiar with the team dynamics and the roles assigned to him. His memorable performances, including a crucial half-century in IPL 2023, make him a trusted option. Given PBKS’s tendency to invest in utility players, they might use the RTM card to secure a cost-effective all-rounder who can adapt to various match situations. Retaining Raza would also ensure continuity in their overseas player lineup.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: Top 5 uncapped players who catch fetch more than five crore

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  • 3 players Rajasthan Royals can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    3 players Rajasthan Royals can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025  mega auction is around the corner, Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural champions of the prestigious tournament, are preparing for making key decisions.

    Having showcased a powerful performance in IPL 2024, where they demonstrated remarkable competitiveness, teamwork, and resilience, the Royals are keen to retain a core group of players who can drive them forward in their pursuit of another title. However, certain players may be released as part of their strategic shake-up to optimize the squad’s balance.

    3 potential key releases by Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2025 auction

    1. Shimron Hetmyer

    The 27-year-old West Indian middle-order batter, who made his IPL debut in 2019, has been a part of Rajasthan Royals since 2022. Shimron Hetmyer made notable contributions during the 2021 and 2022 editions, but his performance in the most recent 2024 season was underwhelming. Despite being a proven power-hitter, he managed to score only 113 runs in 12 matches, with his highest score being 27 not out and an average of 22.60. This marked a sharp decline from his 2023 season, where he amassed 300 runs across 14 matches.

    With RR already boasting a strong middle-order lineup, featuring players like Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, and Rovman Powell, Hetmyer has found it challenging to secure a regular spot. His inability to perform consistently in the 2024 edition may lead the Royals to consider releasing him ahead of the 2025 auction, freeing up space for either a new foreign acquisition or a promising domestic player.

    Also READ: 3 players KKR can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    2. Navdeep Saini

    Indian fast bowler Navdeep Saini has been with Rajasthan Royals since 2022 but has struggled to make a significant impact. In the 2024 season, Saini did not feature in a single match, and in the 2023 season, he played only two matches, taking three wickets. His IPL career statistics are modest, with just 23 wickets in 32 matches.

    Despite his raw pace and potential, Saini’s lack of opportunities and inconsistent performances have hampered his growth in the IPL. With Rajasthan Royals already having a strong pace attack led by the likes of Trent Boult and Sandeep Sharma, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Saini to break into the playing XI. Given his limited role in the last two seasons, the franchise may consider releasing him to explore better options in the upcoming auction.

    3. Keshav Maharaj

    South African left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj joined Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024 but has found it hard to establish himself in the team. The 34-year-old bowler has played only two IPL matches so far, for RR, in which he took two wickets. While Maharaj is an experienced international player, his limited exposure to the IPL format, coupled with his inability to cement his spot in the team, makes him a potential candidate for release.

    With RR already having a formidable spin department that includes Yuzvendra Chahal and versatile options like Ravichandran Ashwin and Parag, Maharaj’s place in the team has come under scrutiny. The Royals may opt to release him to make room for either another foreign spinner or a younger domestic player to strengthen their squad for the 2025 season.

    Also READ: Mumbai Indians: 3 key players MI can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

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  • Harshit Rana comments on Riyan Parag following YouTube controversy involving Ananya Panday and Sara Ali Khan

    Harshit Rana comments on Riyan Parag following YouTube controversy involving Ananya Panday and Sara Ali Khan

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Harshit Rana has addressed the recent controversy surrounding Rajasthan Royals (RR) batter Riyan Parag. Parag found himself in hot water after his YouTube search history was accidentally exposed during a live stream, revealing searches for ‘hot videos’ of Bollywood actresses Ananya Panday and Sara Ali Khan.

    Harshit Rana offers support and humour after Riyan Parag’s YouTube gaffe

    Rana, speaking to Shubhankar Mishra on his Youtube channel, revealed a lighthearted reaction to the incident. “I was laughing and found it hilarious. I even called to check on him sometime later, but it is okay, we laugh it off and move on,” he said.

    Also READ: ‘Sara Ali Khan hot, Ananya Panday hot’ – Riyan Parag’s YouTube search history sparks social media frenzy

    Rana downplayed the seriousness of the situation, suggesting it’s a learning experience Parag can laugh off. “We will talk about it if we tour Zimbabwe together. We won’t be letting this go without having a go at him. I will first tell him to stop going Live on social media ever again.” Rana joked, showcasing a supportive yet playful approach.

    Parag’s search history went viral, sparking amusement and mild criticism online. However, the incident also highlighted the challenges young cricketers face in the age of social media. Rana’s comments suggest a desire to move past the incident with humour and camaraderie, while perhaps offering some gentle guidance to his close friend.

    Riyan Parag: A rising star

    Parag, a rising star in Indian cricket, enjoyed a breakout season with the Rajasthan side in the 2024 edition of the IPL. He finished the season as RR’s third-highest run scorer, showcasing his talent on the field. This off-field incident, while generating headlines, is unlikely to overshadow Parag’s cricketing achievements. As per the reports, he might receive a national call for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. The BCCI is set to give rest to the players who are competing in the USA and West Indies for the coveted T20 World Cup trophy.

    Also READ: Zimbabwe announces new head coach ahead of India series

     

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  • Top 5 lowest scores in the history of IPL finals

    Top 5 lowest scores in the history of IPL finals

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) finals are often anticipated with great excitement and high expectations for nail-biting, closely contested matches. Fans and analysts alike look forward to the culmination of the tournament, hoping for a thrilling encounter that keeps them on the edge of their seats until the last ball.

    The drama of a close chase, the tension of a last-over finish, and the spectacle of star players performing under pressure make the IPL finals a blockbuster event. Historic matches, such as the IPL 2019 final between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), decided by just 1 run, set the bar high for thrilling finales. These moments contribute to the IPL’s reputation as one of the most entertaining cricket leagues in the world, where every final is expected to be a grand spectacle of sportsmanship and skill.

    One-sided matches and pressure crumbles

    However, the reality of IPL finals sometimes diverges from these high expectations, resulting in one-sided matches where one team crumbles under the immense pressure of the summit clash. There have been numerous instances in the 17-year history of the IPL where teams have succumbed to the high stakes, leading to lopsided outcomes.

    For example, in the IPL 2013 final, CSK struggled to chase down a modest total set by MI, ultimately falling short by 23 runs. Similarly, in the IPL 2024 final, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) were bowled out for just 113 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), making it an easy win for KKR. These instances highlight that the pressure of the final can often lead to underwhelming performances, where the nerves and expectations get the better of players and teams, resulting in matches that fail to deliver the anticipated thrill and competitiveness.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: Fans go berserk as Sunil Narine and Gautam Gambhir lifts each other, smiles together after KKR’s title triumph

    IPL final history: 5 lowest scores ever recorded

    1. Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2024 Final

    • Total Score: 113 all out (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
    • Match Date: May 25, 2024
    • Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

    Match Summary:

    In the IPL 2024 final, SRH faced KKR. Batting first, SRH struggled against the disciplined KKR bowling attack, getting bowled out for just 113 runs in 19.2 overs. KKR’s bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc and Andre Russell, were exceptional. In response, KKR chased down the target comfortably, scoring 114/3 in 15.3 overs, thereby securing the championship.

    2. Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2013 Final

    • Total Score: 125/9 (Chennai Super Kings)
    • Match Date: May 26, 2013
    • Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

    Match Summary:

    In the 2013 IPL final, CSK faced MI. MI batted first and scored 148/9 in their 20 overs. CSK, in reply, struggled with their batting lineup failing to build substantial partnerships. Despite a fighting 63* from MS Dhoni, CSK managed only 125/9 in their 20 overs, resulting in a 23-run victory for MI. MI’s bowlers, especially Mitchell Johnson and Lasith Malinga, played crucial roles in restricting CSK.

    3. Rising Pune Supergiant vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2017 Final

    • Total Score: 128/6 (Rising Pune Supergiant)
    • Match Date: May 21, 2017
    • Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

    Match Summary:

    In the IPL 2017 final, MI batted first and posted a modest 129/8 in their 20 overs, with Krunal Pandya top-scoring with 47 runs. Rising Pune Supergiant (RPSG), in their chase, fell just short, scoring 128/6 in their 20 overs. Despite a well-fought 51* from Steve Smith, MI’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Johnson, held their nerve to secure a one-run victory.

    4. Mumbai Indians vs Rising Pune Supergiant – IPL 2017 Final

    • Total Score: 129/8 (Mumbai Indians)
    • Match Date: May 21, 2017
    • Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

    Match Summary:

    In the same IPL 2017 final, MI’s score of 129/8 when batting first was one of the lowest winning totals in IPL final history. This low score created a highly competitive match, with MI’s bowlers ultimately defending the target by a slender margin. The thrilling finish underscored the importance of disciplined bowling and fielding in T20 cricket.

    5. Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans – IPL 2022 Final

    • Total Score: 130/9 (Rajasthan Royals)
    • Match Date: May 29, 2022
    • Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

    Match Summary:

    In the IPL 2022 final, Rajasthan Royals (RR) batted first against Gujarat Titans (GT) and posted 130/9 in their 20 overs. Hardik Pandya and Yash Dayal bowled excellently for GT. Chasing 131, GT comfortably reached 133/3 in 18.1 overs, with Shubman Gill top-scoring. This victory marked GT’s maiden IPL title in their debut season, with a comprehensive seven-wicket win over RR.

    Also Check: Videos of Shreyas Iyer and Sunil Narine’s special celebration with KKR teammates go viral | IPL 2024

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  • IPL 2024: RR skipper Sanju Samson reveals the reason of defeat against SRH in Qualifier 2

    IPL 2024: RR skipper Sanju Samson reveals the reason of defeat against SRH in Qualifier 2

    Despite emerging as the prime contender to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the halfway point of the season, Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) campaign met its conclusion before the final. The Sanju Samson-led team suffered a 36-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 2 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday (May 24).

    RR’s commendable bowling effort falls short

    Bowling first, Rajasthan did a commendable job of restricting Hyderabad’s intimidating batting unit, which has broken records aplenty this season, to a score of 175/9. Key bowlers managed to keep the Hyderabad batters in check, showcasing their skill and strategy. However, despite their best efforts, the target proved too challenging for the Rajasthan’ batters, who could only accumulate 139 runs in response.

    Also WATCH: ‘Worst ball ever seen in cricket’ – SRH’s Aiden Markram delivers a bizarre no ball in IPL 2024 Qualifier 2 against RR

    Sanju Samson’s post-match reflections

    After the game, Samson credited Hyderabad’s spinners and noted the pitch’s unexpected behavior in the second innings, acknowledging that their middle-over performance against spin was lacking and the turning wicket was well-utilized by the opposition.

    “This was a big game. I am proud of our bowlers, but we were short in the middle overs. Their use of spin against our right-handed batsmen was good; we lost the game against spin in the middle-overs. When the ball was turning, we could’ve used sweep or used our feet, but they bowled well. The wicket started behaving differently in the second innings. The ball started turning a bit and they used that advantage really well,” Samson said in the post-match presentation.

    Unpredictable conditions

    Samson discussed the unpredictable conditions, noting the absence of dew and increased ball turn in the second innings, which complicated their chase. He reflected on their batting strategy, acknowledging they could have used the crease better, but praised Shahbaz Ahmed and Abhishek Sharma for their effective bowling.

    “It was hard to assess and guess when dew would come; it didn’t come and it started turning a lot in the second innings, which made things difficult for us. The unexpected turn of the ball added to the challenges faced by Rajasthan Royals during their chase. Samson also reflected on the team’s batting strategy, noting, When the ball was stopping and turning, we could have used the crease a bit better but they (Shahbaz Ahmed and Abhishek Sharma) bowled well and didn’t give us anything to work with,” the 29-year-old concluded.

    Also WATCH: Kavya Maran jumps and dances as SRH beat RR to reach IPL 2024 final

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  • Twitter reactions: Heinrich Klaasen, Shahbaz Ahmed drive SRH to final after thumping win over RR in Qualifier 2 | IPL 2024

    Twitter reactions: Heinrich Klaasen, Shahbaz Ahmed drive SRH to final after thumping win over RR in Qualifier 2 | IPL 2024

    Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) booked their place in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 after a thumping win against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. The Sunrisers will now face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the summit clash of the ongoing season.

    Heinrich Klaasen powers SRH to a competitive total

    Sunrisers Hyderabad put up a challenging total of 175 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Heinrich Klaasen, who scored a crucial 50 off 34 balls, including 4 sixes. Travis Head (34 off 28) and Rahul Tripathi (37 off 15) provided strong support at the top of the order, while Jaydev Unadkat contributed a quick 5 off 2 balls towards the end.

    Rajasthan Royals’ bowlers had mixed results. Trent Boult and Avesh Khan were the pick of the bowlers, each taking 3 wickets and conceding 45 and 27 runs, respectively. Sandeep Sharma also chipped in with 2 wickets for 25 runs in his 4 overs, providing crucial breakthroughs.

    Shahbaz Ahmed shines with the ball

    In response, Rajasthan Royals struggled to chase down the target and managed to score 139 for 7 in their 20 overs. Despite a promising start by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a quickfire 42 off 21 balls, and a fighting 56 off 35 balls from Dhruv Jurel, the Royals’ middle order faltered under the pressure of a disciplined SRH bowling attack.

    Sunrisers Hyderabad’s bowlers were efficient and effective. Shahbaz Ahmed was the standout performer, taking 3 wickets for 23 runs in his 4 overs. Abhishek Sharma also impressed with figures of 2 for 24 in his 4 overs, while Pat Cummins and T Natarajan took one wicket each, maintaining tight control over the run rate.

    Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – Trent Boult’s solid response after conceding a 6 and 4 against Abhishek Sharma in Qualifier 2 | SRH vs RR

    Here is how Twitter reacted:

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