Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has said that not retaining Jos Buttler was the toughest thing for him and added that if he had the power to change a rule in the IPL, he would change the regulation on releasing players.
The Royals have retained six players – Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shimron Hetmyer ahead of the 2025 mega auction due to which Jos Buttler, who joined Gujarat Giants for the IPL 2025 season.
“IPL allows you to lead a team and play at the highest level, but it also allows you to build close friendships. Jos Buttler is one of my closest friends.”
“We played together for seven years, forming a long batting partnership. We knew each other so well and always kept in touch. He was like an elder brother to me.
“When I became captain, he was my vice-captain and played a huge role in helping me lead the team. Letting him go has been one of the most challenging things for me.”
“Even during the England series, I told him over dinner that I was still not over it. If I could change one thing in the IPL, I would change the rule of releasing players.
“While it has its positives, on a personal level, you lose connections and relationships built over years. It has been hard for me, the entire franchise, the owners, the coaches, and everyone associated with RR. Jos was family to us,” said Samson.
At the same time, Samson also spoke of retaining key players like Jurel, Parag, and Hetmyer.
“Of course, it plays a huge role. Having players who are already part of the team creates a great connection. It makes my job easier because we know each other well, both on and off the field, and that helps in better team coordination.
In last year’s mega auction, RR made waves by signing 13 year old batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi for INR 1.10 crore, who’s now the youngest player to earn an IPL deal.
The Left hander has scored a century for India in U19 in their four day games against Australia U19 team in Chennai last year.
“The boys of today don’t lack confidence at all. They are very brave and understand the current situation of Indian cricket and the brand of cricket that needs to be played.” said Sanju Samson.”
“For me, rather than giving advice, I prefer observing first—how a youngster wants to play his cricket, what he likes, and what kind of support he needs from me. Then, I work my way around that.
“Vaibhav looks very confident; he was hitting sixes out of the ground at the academy. People were already talking about his power-hitting. What else can you ask for? It’s all about understanding his strengths, backing him, and being there for him like an elder brother.
“I think he looks ready to contribute. The key is to keep him in the best shape and provide a relaxed environment, which is something Rajasthan Royals (RR) is known for.”
“We ensure a positive atmosphere in the dressing room and back our players. You never know—he might end up playing for India in a couple of years.”
“I feel he is ready for the IPL. He looks capable of landing a few solid punches here and there. Let’s see what the future holds,” he elaborated.
With the IPL 2025 season is set to begin on March 22, Rajasthan Royals will play their first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23 at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
