Sanju Samson has been a pivotal figure for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, showcasing his talent both domestically and internationally.

His performance in 2024 was nothing short of spectacular, particularly in the IPL where he scored 531 runs, making it his best season yet.

However, his injury during the T20I series against England has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming IPL 2025.

In this scenario, Rajasthan Royals need to consider viable alternatives to fill the void left by their captain and star batsman.

Matthew Short

If Rajasthan Royals decide to look outside India for a replacement, Matthew Short from Australia could be an excellent choice.

Short has made significant strides since his debut in the IPL back in 2023. Known for his aggressive batting style, he has accumulated nearly 3000 runs in T20 cricket with an impressive strike rate of 146.16.

His recent performance in the Big Bash League (BBL), where he scored 236 runs including a century, underscores his current form and capability at the top of the order.

Short isn’t just a batsman; he also contributes with the ball, offering Rajasthan Royals a versatile option in the powerplay with his off-break bowling.

His ability to provide breakthroughs when the ball is new could be crucial for a team like Royals, who often rely on their top order to set a strong platform.

If Samson’s injury sidelines him, Short could not only replace him in terms of runs but also bring a different dynamic to the team with his dual skills.

Mayank Agarwal

Turning to Indian options, Mayank Agarwal, despite going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, remains a formidable choice due to his experience and proven track record.

Agarwal has over 2661 runs in the IPL, with a blend of both aggressive and composed innings including a century and 13 fifties.

His experience leading Punjab Kings in the past adds a leadership element which could be beneficial, especially in Samson’s absence.

Recent domestic performances highlight Agarwal’s readiness to make a comeback.

He scored 179 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) at a strike rate of 152.99, and was even more impressive in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 651 runs at an average of 93.

This form indicates that Agarwal is not just back in form but also eager to prove his worth on the IPL stage.

His inclusion could provide stability and experience to the Royals’ batting lineup, ensuring they have a solid Indian contender ready to step up.

David Warner

David Warner‘s name has always been synonymous with aggressive, match-winning innings in T20 cricket. Although his recent IPL performances have shown a dip, his overall T20I statistics are enviable.

Over 110 innings, Warner has amassed 3277 runs with a strike rate of 142.47, including one century and 28 fifties.

His experience, particularly in opening the innings, could be exactly what Rajasthan Royals need, especially if Samson’s injury leads to a prolonged absence.

Warner’s ability to handle pressure and deliver in crucial games makes him a valuable asset. In the IPL 2025, although he might not have started with the numbers that reflect his peak, his experience could still play a pivotal role.

With 168 runs in just 8 matches, there’s an indication that Warner has the capability to turn things around, making him a strategic pick for Royals if they aim for a blend of experience and explosive batting at the top.

In conclusion, while Sanju Samson’s injury is a significant blow, Rajasthan Royals have several pathways to maintain their competitive edge.

Whether they opt for the overseas flair of Matthew Short, the seasoned prowess of Mayank Agarwal, or the tried-and-true aggression of David Warner, each player brings unique strengths that could seamlessly integrate into the Royals’ strategy for IPL 2025.

The team’s management will have to weigh these options not just based on immediate needs but also on how each player can contribute to the team’s long-term ambitions in the tournament.