The stage is set for the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which kicks off on March 22. The Rajasthan Royals will take on the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their first match on March 23, and this season, the Royals are looking like a revamped team. Let’s dive into what their playing eleven could look like against SRH.
One of the significant strengths of the Rajasthan Royals is their arsenal of talented Indian players, which forms the backbone of their top order. Although the team will be missing the likes of Jos Buttler, who was a key player in the top order in previous seasons, it doesn’t seem like his absence will be deeply felt. The team’s dynamics have evolved, and the existing players are more than capable of stepping up to the challenge.
When it comes to the Royals’ playing eleven, Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Sanju Samson are expected to open the innings. Given Samson’s recent stint as an opener for India in T20s, it’s likely he’ll continue in this role in the IPL as well. Both Jaiswal and Samson are known for their explosive batting styles, making them a formidable opening pair in the T20 format.
Following the openers, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel are slated to bat at numbers three, four, and five, respectively. What’s notable is that the top five spots in the batting order are filled by Indian players, showcasing the team’s depth in homegrown talent. Beyond this, the team has the explosive Shimron Hetmyer, who is renowned for his ability to hit big shots with ease. At number seven, Sri Lankan spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga could make an appearance.
In terms of bowling, Hasaranga might be joined by his compatriot Maheesh Theekshana to handle the spin department. For pace, the trio of Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, and Tushar Deshpande could be in action. Sandeep, who has been with the team previously, has consistently delivered impressive performances, especially in death overs.
So, a potential playing eleven for the Rajasthan Royals against the Sunrisers Hyderabad could comprise Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (captain and wicketkeeper), Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, and Tushar Deshpande. This lineup not only showcases the team’s strength in Indian talent but also its strategic balance, blending youth with experience and domestic flair with international firepower.