During the IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, the Rajasthan Royals made significant moves by signing a total of 20 players. On the first day of the auction, the Royals predominantly focused on enhancing their bowling department. Their amazing signing was Jofra Archer, the English pace-bowling all-rounder, who became the team’s most expensive acquisition at ₹12.5 crore.
Shifting gears on the second day, the Rajasthan Royals concentrated on strengthening their roster with Indian players. They successfully signed Nitish Rana
With strategic decisions made to keep their core intact, alongside the acquisition of impactful players, the Royals’ strongest XI promises a blend of explosive batting and a solid bowling attack.
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Sanju Samson (Captain, Middle-Order Batsman)
Retained for ₹18 crore, Sanju Samson continues as the captain of the Rajasthan Royals. His leadership skills and exceptional ability to control the middle order make him a perfect-fit in the lineup, capable of both anchoring the innings and accelerating scoring as required.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (Opening Batsman)
Another key retention at ₹18 crore, Yashasvi Jaiswal is set to open the batting and is regarded as a marquee player. His aggressive batting style can provide the Royals with explosive starts, setting a challenging total for the opposition.
Nitish Rana (All-Rounder)
Acquired for ₹4.2 crore, Nitish Rana adds a valuable all-rounder perspective. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball creates flexibility in the lineup, allowing for strategic changes during critical match moments.
Riyan Parag (All-Rounder)
Retained for ₹14 crore, Riyan Parag brings a mix of youth and resilience to the squad. Positioned in the middle order, he possesses the talent to finish games while also being a handy off-spin option in the bowling department.
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Dhruv Jurel (Middle-Order Batsman)
Dhruv Jurel, retained for ₹14 crore, is another strong player in the middle order. His capacity to take the innings deep and accelerate in the final overs makes him crucial, especially in high-pressure situations.
Shimron Hetmyer (Middle-Order Batsman, Overseas)
The explosive West Indian batter, Shimron Hetmyer, retains his place at ₹11 crore. His dynamic batting skills are essential during the death overs, making him a significant threat to opposing teams.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Lead Spinner, Overseas)
Bought for ₹5.25 crore, Sri Lankan star Wanindu Hasaranga is expected to lead the spin attack. His knack for taking wickets and maintaining pressure during crucial phases will be invaluable to the Royals’ bowling strategy.
Maheesh Theekshana (Lead Spinner)
With an acquisition cost of ₹4.4 crore, Maheesh Theekshana joins as a powerplay specialist and lead spinner. His unique bowling style can effectively disrupt opposition openings early in the innings.
Jofra Archer (Lead Pacer, Overseas)
A striking buy at ₹12.50 crore, Jofra Archer brings world-class pace and death-overs expertise. His ability to bowl fast and under pressure marks him as a key player in any match, crucial for breaking partnerships.
Sandeep Sharma (Fast Bowler)
Retained for ₹4 crore, Sandeep Sharma’s reliable pace and ability to swing the new ball provide the Royals with a seasoned presence in the bowling unit.
Tushar Deshpande (Fast Bowler)
Acquired for ₹6.5 crore, Tushar Deshpande adds fresh energy to the squad. His fast-bowling capabilities will be pivotal in creating breakthroughs at crucial moments for Rajasthan Royals.
Impact Player: Shubham Dubey (Batsman)
Brought in for ₹80 lakh, Shubham Dubey is poised to be the Royals’ impact player, providing solid batting depth when required.
Rajasthan Royals’ Strongest XI for IPL-2025:
Sanju Samson (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande (Impact Player: Shubham Dubey)