Sports

Riyan Parag to Captain Royals in Opening Three Matches of IPL 2025

Published

9 months ago

March 21, 2025

Riyan Parag, the all-rounder, has been appointed as the captain of Rajasthan Royals for the first three matches of IPL 2025. This comes as their regular captain, Sanju Samson, is recovering from a finger injury and has been cleared to bat but not yet for wicketkeeping or fielding duties.

Samson underwent finger surgery last month and rejoined the RR squad on Monday after his rehabilitation at the National Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He is expected to participate as an Impact Sub in the IPL, while Dhruv Jurel is set to handle wicketkeeping responsibilities.

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In a video shared on the official RR handle, Samson stated, “I’m not fully fit to play three or more games. Our team is filled with potential leaders. Over the last few years, several excellent individuals have nurtured this environment. For the next three games, Riyan will be at the helm. He is more than capable, and I trust everyone will support him.”

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According to an RR release, Samson will resume his role as captain once he is fully fit.

This marks Riyan’s debut as a captain in the IPL, making him the fifth youngest player to take on this role. Since joining RR in 2019, he was retained by the franchise for ₹14 crores just before the mega auction last year. In IPL 2024, he scored 573 runs, the most by any RR player and the third-highest in the tournament, alongside four half-centuries, which earned him T20I and ODI caps for India.

“Rajasthan Royals’ choice to appoint Riyan as captain highlights the franchise’s trust in his leadership abilities, which he has shown while captaining Assam in domestic competitions,” a statement from the franchise noted.

His long-standing role within the Royals adds to his understanding of the team’s dynamics, positioning him well to step into this role at the tournament’s outset.

The Rajasthan Royals will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign with an away match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, marking Parag’s captaincy debut. He will then return to Guwahati for two home matches in the city—facing defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and Chennai Super Kings on March 30.

This milestone also makes Riyan the first Assamese player to captain an IPL team, symbolizing a significant achievement for the region. Parag has previously led Assam in the domestic circuit, winning 10 out of 17 T20 matches between 2021 and 2023, with an impressive average of 67.09 and a strike rate of 167.72.

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Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

3 weeks ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

4 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.

Sports

Sri Lankan Players Express Security Fears in Pakistan, Board Urges Them to Stay

Published

4 weeks ago

November 13, 2025

Namma Kudla

Some Sri Lankan cricketers in Pakistan have asked to return home after a bomb blast in Islamabad killed 12 people on Wednesday. The team is currently playing a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, which is close to Islamabad.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement that it had spoken to the players and assured them of their safety. The board is working with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities to ensure full security.

SLC has directed all players and staff to continue the tour. It warned that if anyone still chooses to return, replacements will be sent and a review will be held later.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are also set to play a T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe from November 17 to 29 in Rawalpindi and Lahore. PCB chief and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is overseeing the security arrangements for all three teams.