Sanju Samson Breaks Silence on the Emotional Struggle Before IPL 2025

With IPL 2025 on the horizon, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has opened up about the personal and professional struggles he has endured in the run-up to the season. Among them, one of the most difficult was saying goodbye to his longtime teammate and friend, Jos Buttler. While the IPL has provided Samson with many chances to develop as a leader and player, he feels that some rules complicate the game on a personal basis.

A Bond Spanning Years

Sanju Samson and Jos Buttler were not just teammates; they had a strong bond which went beyond the cricket pitch. Having played together for seven years at Rajasthan Royals, their friendship strengthened year by year. As Samson's vice-captain, Buttler played an important role in assisting him as captain for the franchise. Their relationship thrived on and off the pitch, and it was therefore extremely hard for Samson to believe that Buttler would no longer be a member of the team.

"Jos was like an elder brother to me. We got each other so well, both as friends and as players. I still remember having dinner with him during the England series and telling him that I was still not over it," Samson revealed in an interview with JioHotstar.

The Toughest Decision for RR

With the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals were forced to make some difficult decisions when it came to player retention. Although the team was able to retain key players such as Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shimron Hetmyer, they were unable to get Buttler as there were limited spots available. Because of this, Buttler was retained by Gujarat Titans for the next season.

Samson acknowledged that if he had to alter one rule in the IPL, it would be to drop the mandatory release of players. He justified that while auctions are beneficial, they also shatter years of bonding and chemistry among team members. "It has been difficult, not only for me but for the whole franchise. The owners, coaches, and staff at RR regarded Jos as a member of the family," he further said.

The Strength of Team Cohesion

In spite of the disappointment of losing Buttler, Samson underscored the value of keeping core players. Having players who know each other's games and personalities already makes the job of the captain much easier and enhances team coordination. He feels Rajasthan Royals has assembled a strong group that will serve to make them compete robustly this season.

We have a solid platform with Jurel, Parag, Hetmyer, and Jaiswal. Team familiarity is a big plus point, and I am sure we will do well as a group," Samson said.

A Young Prodigy in the Making

One of the most thrilling elements of RR's team this season is the presence of 13-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The young left-handed batsman from Bihar was in the news after he scored a century for India U19 while playing against Australia U19. His ability to power-hit has already impressed senior players.

When questioned on mentoring young prodigies like Suryavanshi, Samson underscored his policy of allowing the players to speak for themselves. "Today's young cricketers are confident and well-advised about the requirements of the contemporary game. Rather than dumping advice on them, I rather watch how they play, what their strengths are, and then provide guidance accordingly," he stated.

Suryavanshi’s natural ability to hit sixes has impressed Samson, who believes that he has the potential to make a big impact. “It’s about giving him the right environment and support. Rajasthan Royals has always prioritized player development and created a relaxed atmosphere in the dressing room. Who knows? He might be playing for India in a few years,” he added.

Learning from the Best – MS Dhoni’s Influence

For Samson, one of the biggest privileges in his life has been the chance to share time with MS Dhoni. As with most Indian cricketers, he idolized Dhoni and always anticipated playing against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just for the opportunity to spend time with him.

Remembering one of those special moments, Samson recollected the time when he was finally able to meet Dhoni after having a good outing in Sharjah, scoring some 70-80 runs, and earning a Man of the Match. Post that, Samson says he has known Dhoni, who has increased their interaction ever since.

"Each time I see Mahi bhai, I make it a point to learn something new. Yesterday itself, I got an opportunity to meet him. From worshipping him to now exchanging talks and working alongside each other in various situations, it's a dream come true," Samson explained.

Looking Ahead to IPL 2025

In spite of the setbacks, Samson is upbeat about Rajasthan Royals' chances in the next IPL season. With a strong core of retained players and talented young guns, he is set to take the team to victory. His capacity to build good team relationships while learning from cricket legends like Dhoni has made him a mature leader capable of facing new challenges.

With the tournament beginning on March 22, viewers would be looking forward to witnessing Rajasthan Royals play under the captaincy of Samson. Be it the thrill of emerging stars such as Suryavanshi or the agony of losing Buttler, one thing is for sure—this IPL campaign would be an emotional and exciting journey for Sanju Samson and his teammates.