The highly anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction concluded on Monday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal moment for all franchises. Among the highlights was the Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural IPL champions, finalizing a strong and balanced squad for the upcoming season. A key takeaway from the event was the return of star English pacer Jofra Archer to the Rajasthan Royals, adding significant firepower to their bowling lineup.
The Sanju Samson-led team displayed a calculated approach during the auction, having already secured some of the best talents in the league through their pre-auction retentions. This strategy allowed the Royals to focus on complementing their core group with impactful purchases in the auction.
Retentions: Building Around a Strong Core
Before the mega auction Squad, the Royals locked in a formidable group of retained players who form the backbone of the squad. Among them are the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson, both valued at INR 18 crore each, reflecting their indispensable roles in the team. Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag also commanded INR 14 crore each, showcasing the Royals’ faith in their young Indian talents. The explosive Shimron Hetmyer was retained for INR 11 crore, while experienced pacer Sandeep Sharma was kept for INR 4 crore.
The retained players provide RR with a wealth of batting prowess, with Jaiswal and Samson known for their consistency and stroke play, while Hetmyer offers unmatched finishing ability. The Royals’ strategy to retain these players underscores their commitment to building around a youthful yet experienced core.
Auction Highlights: Jofra Archer’s Homecoming
The return of Jofra Archer to the Rajasthan Royals stole the spotlight during the auction. The franchise secured the English pacer for INR 12.5 crore, marking a much-anticipated reunion after his previous stint with the team. Archer, known for his lethal pace and accuracy, is expected to play a key role in spearheading RR’s bowling attack.
In addition to Archer, the Royals made other smart acquisitions to bolster their squad. These include Sri Lankan spin duo Wanindu Hasaranga (INR 5.25 crore) and Maheesh Theekshana (INR 4.40 crore), both known for their effectiveness in T20 cricket. Promising Indian pacer Akash Madhwal was a notable pick at INR 1.20 crore, while the versatile Nitish Rana joined for INR 4.20 crore, adding depth to the batting lineup.
Strategic Additions: Balancing the Squad
The Royals aimed to cover all bases with their auction purchases, ensuring depth and variety in both the batting and bowling departments. Here is a breakdown of their key signings:
- Fazalhaq Farooqi (INR 2 crore): The Afghan left-arm pacer adds variety to the seam attack.
- Tushar Deshpande (INR 6.50 crore): A proven performer in the IPL, Deshpande strengthens the pace bowling options.
- Kumar Kartikeya (INR 30 lakh) and Yudhvir Charak (INR 35 lakh): Promising spinners to enhance the spin department.
- Shubham Dubey (INR 80 lakh) and Kunal Rathore (INR 30 lakh): Talented youngsters who offer potential for the future.
- Kwena Maphaka and Ashok Sharma (both INR 30 lakh): Budget-friendly picks with potential to shine.
The Rajasthan Royals Squad for IPL 2025
With the auction complete, here is the final squad for Rajasthan Royals as they gear up for the 2025 IPL season:
Retained Players:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (INR 18 Cr)
- Sanju Samson (INR 18 Cr)
- Dhruv Jurel (INR 14 Cr)
- Riyan Parag (INR 14 Cr)
- Shimron Hetmyer (INR 11 Cr)
- Sandeep Sharma (INR 4 Cr)
Players Bought in Auction:
- Jofra Archer (INR 12.5 Cr)
- Wanindu Hasaranga (INR 5.25 Cr)
- Maheesh Theekshana (INR 4.40 Cr)
- Akash Madhwal (INR 1.20 Cr)
- Nitish Rana (INR 4.20 Cr)
- Tushar Deshpande (INR 6.50 Cr)
- Fazalhaq Farooqi (INR 2 Cr)
- Kumar Kartikeya (INR 30 Lakh)
- Yudhvir Charak (INR 35 Lakh)
- Shubham Dubey (INR 80 Lakh)
- Kunal Rathore (INR 30 Lakh)
- Kwena Maphaka (INR 30 Lakh)
- Ashok Sharma (INR 30 Lakh)
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi (INR 1.10 Cr)
Looking Ahead to IPL 2025
The Rajasthan Royals enter the IPL 2025 season with a well-rounded squad that combines youth, experience, and versatility. The return of Jofra Archer, coupled with the additions of world-class talents like Hasaranga and Theekshana, ensures a formidable bowling lineup. Meanwhile, the retained batting core led by Samson and Jaiswal promises fireworks at the top order.
Under the astute leadership of Sanju Samson, the Royals will aim to replicate their success from the inaugural season and capture their second IPL title. With a balanced team and a mix of established stars and promising newcomers, RR looks poised to be a strong contender in IPL 2025.
