IPL 2025: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives update on rift with Sanju Samson

Dubai: Rajasthan Royals are on a three-match losing streak in Indian Premier League Season 18 — and have more bad news to contend with: skipper Sanju Samson is doubtful for Saturday’s clash against Lucknow Super Giants.

There are also reports of a rift between coach Rahul Dravid and Samson. However, the former India captain dismissed the speculation, saying he and Samson remain united despite the team’s recent slump.

“Sanju is very much an integral part of all the decision-making and I have a really good rapport with him. He is involved in each and every discussion that we make,” Dravid said at a media interaction ahead of the Royals’ home game on Friday.

“Obviously, when you lose games and things don’t go right sometimes, you face the criticism of not performing well or not doing well.”

Samson’s participation remains in doubt as the franchise awaits scan results on a side injury.

The Royals captain retired hurt after scoring a brisk 31 off 19 balls in their previous match against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday, which the hosts won in a Super Over. He appeared to be in discomfort after attempting a cut shot off Vipraj Nigam, prompting the physio to examine the left side of his rib cage. Though he faced the next delivery, Samson soon walked off the field.

“Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today so we are waiting the results of those scans,” Dravid said. “And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of (the injury), we’ll take a decision going forward and we’ll see what happens.”

Samson started IPL 2025 while recovering from a thumb injury and played only as a batter in the first three matches. During that period, Riyan Parag stepped in as captain and is expected to do so again if required.

Initially used as an Impact Player, Samson resumed full duties as captain and wicketkeeper after being cleared by the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, following finger surgery last month. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel took over the gloves.