However, Samson, who was RR’s top run-getter (375) in 2020, seeks stability in their opening pair as they tried five different combinations including players like Ben Stokes, Steven Smith, Jos Buttler, Robin Uthappa and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order in last IPL.
Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson
Rajasthan Royals have a plan in place to counter their opponents Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium today, be it against their classy skipper KL Rahul or their hard-hitting batsman Chris Gayle. RR’s young captain Sanju Samson, 26, did not reveal the strategy but sounded confident ahead of their opening game of IPL-14. “We definitely have some very capable people looking into that topic [countering Punjab Kings]. I think our plans are crystal clear. We have plans for every batsman and that’s how it should be. Our bowlers know it [plans] and that’s enough for us,” Samson told mid-day when asked about their tactics to curb Gayle, during a virtual press conference on Sunday.
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However, Samson, who was RR’s top run-getter (375) in 2020, seeks stability in their opening pair as they tried five different combinations including players like Ben Stokes, Steven Smith, Jos Buttler, Robin Uthappa and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order in last IPL.
RR seeking opening combo
“Actually it depends, me and Sanga [RR’s Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara] will be trying to play the best combination for our team. From my point of view, it is crucial to give an individual or the opening partners enough time in the tournament. So, a bit of stability will be seen in the tournament and the rest depends on how we go ahead,” Samson remarked.
When asked about Buttler’s position in the team this time, former Sri Lankan skipper Sangakkara said: “We will look to finalise later on today [Sunday] before we go for training. We want to keep our options open. The most important thing is that our players were communicated clearly about what their roles are and get them to commit to it.”
Archer’s injury, a concern
In the bowling department, RR have some concerns as their star pacer Jofra Archer, who took 20 wickets in the last IPL, has undergone surgery last month to treat his hand injury and will miss the initial stages of the tournament. “Sanju and I both agree that it’s a big blow for us.
Jofra is an absolutely vital part of our make-up and not having him is an unfortunate reality. We have to plan around it and put some contingencies in place. We are hoping that at some point he will join us and be able to play some part in this IPL,” said Sangakkara.
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