Rajasthan Royals (RR) have appointed former India all-rounder Sairaj Bahutule as their spin bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.

Rajasthan Royals names a new spin bowling coach for the IPL 2025

Sairaj returns to the franchise after previously serving in the role between 2018 and 2021. Known for his vast experience in domestic and international cricket, the brings a wealth of knowledge to the Royalsâ€?setup as they aim to end their long-standing trophy drought. Bahutule said it’s a great honor to rejoin Royals. The franchise’s dedication to nurturing talent and playing an exciting brand of cricket aligns with my coaching philosophy

“Joining Rajasthan Royals again is a tremendous honor. The franchise’s commitment to nurturing talent and playing an exciting brand of cricket resonates with my own coaching philosophy. I am eager to work alongside Rahul and the rest of the coaching staff to develop our bowling attack and contribute to the team’s success. Together, we aim to achieve great milestones in the forthcoming season,” Bahutule said in a s????tatement released by the Rajasthan Royals.

A stalwart of Indian domestic cricket

Bahutule has had an illustrious domestic caree?r, having taken over 630 wickets and scored more than 6,000 runs in first-class cricket. Though his international appearances were limited to two Tests and?? eight ODIs, his contributions to Mumbai’s dominance in the Ranji Trophy made him one of the most respected names in Indian cricket. After retiring as a player, Bahutule smoothly transitioned into coaching and has mentored teams like Mumbai, Bengal, Kerala, and the Indian national team. His deep understanding of spin bowling is expected to be a valuable asset for Rajasthan Royals, especially in assisting young spinners.

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Working under Rahul Dravid and strengthening RR’s coaching staff

With Bahutule’s appointment, Royals have further bolstered their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2025. He will work under head coach Rahul Dravid, who himself has returned to the franchise after his tenure as India’s head coach. The Royals have also recently onboarded Vikram Rathour as their batting?? coach, i??ndicating a significant revamp in their backroom staff.

The presence of experienced figures like Dravid, Rathour, and Bahutule is expected to enhance the Royals’ strategic approach, particularly in helping the squad maintain consistency across the long IPL season. With spin playing a crucial role in IPL matches, Bahutule’s guidance will be instrumental in refining the team’s bowling attack.

“Sairaj’s deep understanding of spin bowling and his extensive coaching experience make him an invaluable addition to our team. His proven ability to mentor young bowlers aligns perfectly with our vision at Rajasthan Royals. Having worked with him before, I am confident that his insights and guidance will significantly benefit our players as we strive for excellence in the upcoming season,” Dravid said.

Rajasthan Royals eyeing a second IPL title after 17 years

Despite being the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, the Royals have failed to win the title in the last 17 seasons. While they have come close on several occas??ions, including finishing as runners-up in IPL 2022??, inconsistency has often plagued their performances in crucial stages of the tournament.

Ahead of the IPL 2025 season, the franchise is making significant moves both in terms of squad building and coaching appointments. With Bahutule back in the mix, the team will be looking to improve their spin bowling department, a crucial aspect in th??eir bid to claim a long-??awaited second IPL title.

As Royals gear up for the upcoming season, their focus on a?ssembling a strong coaching unit reflects their ambition to return to championship-winning ways. With Bahutule’s expertise and the leadership of Dravid and Rathour, the franchise hopes to find the right balance between experience and youthful energy, ultimately aiming to lift the IPL 2025 trophy.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can win IPL 2025 ??under Rajat Patidar’s?? captaincy

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Ed Sheeran, the global music sensation, is known for his soulful melodies and chart-topping hits. But during his recent visit to India for the ‘Mathematics’ tour, he showcased a different kind of talent—his cricketing skills. The British singer, who has been captivating audiences across the country, took a break from his musical journey to spend time with the Rajasthan Royals, one of the most beloved franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). What followed was a heartwarming interaction, a batting session, and a touching tribute to the late Shane Warne, th??e legendary cricketer ??who once led the Royals to glory.

A royal welcome with gifts and smiles

Sheeran’s visit to the Rajasthan Royals camp was nothing short of special. The singer was greeted by Riyan Parag and Tushar Deshpande, who presented him with a custom Rajasthan Royals jersey. But this? wasn’t just any jersey—it bore the name and number of Warne, the iconic spinner who captained the Royals to their maiden IPL title in 2008. Sheeran’s face lit up with joy as he held the jersey, a testament to his deep admiration for Warne.

The ?gifts didn’t stop there. Sheeran was also handed a cricket bat, a symbol of the sport that unites millions in India. The singer, known for his humility and down-to-e?arth nature, seemed genuinely touched by the gesture.

From mic to pitch: Ed Sheeran’s batting debut

The highlight of the day came when Sheeran stepped onto the field for a batting session. With Parag bowling to him, the singer showcased his cricketing prowess, much to the delight?? of everyone present. Sheeran’s swing was smooth, and he even managed to hit a six with a well-ex?ecuted sweep shot.

Parag, who was bowling to the singer, couldn’t hide his surprise. â€?em>He’s got a good swing. I’m pleasantly surprised,â€?the young cricketer remarked. It was clear th??at She?eran wasn’t just a music icon but also a sports enthusiast who could hold his own on the pitch.

As the session came to an end, Sheeran returned the favour by gifting Parag and Deshpande jerseys from Ipswich Town, the English fo??otball club of which he is a part owner. The exchange symbolized the beautiful intersection of sports and music, two worlds that?? Sheeran effortlessly bridges.

Here’s the video:

Won the toss and asked @edsheeran to bat first! 💗 pic.twitter.com/k9TFcU6dev

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) February 11, 2025

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Sheeran’s bond with Shane Warne: A friendship beyond borders

The tribute to Warne held a deeper meaning for Sheeran. The singer shared a close friendship with the cricketing legend, who passed away in 2022. Sheeran had previously paid homage to Warne dur?ing his concert at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2?023, where he sang in memory of his late friend.

â€?em>Shane was an incredible human to me and every single person that he came across, and I’ve got such wonderful stories of him. People that he didn’t even know have wonderful stories of him—he gave so much of his time and energy and love. He was such a great bloke,â€?Sheeran once said for the legendary player.

Warne’s legacy lives on in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide, and Sheeran’s gesture of do??nning the Warne 23 jersey was a touching reminder of the bond they shared. The Royals, under Warne’s leadership, clinched the inaugural IPL title in 2008. As the franchise aims to reclaim the trophy in the coming seasons, Sheeran’s visit served as a source of insp??iration. The singer’s love for cricket and his connection to Warne added a layer of emotion to the interaction, making it a memorable moment for everyone involved.

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The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024, India’s premier domestic T20 tournament, saw some remarkable performances from players across the country. For the Rajasthan Royals (RR), sever??al of their squad members made a significant impact, raising hopes for a stellar campaign in IPL 2025.

Building on Indian Premier League 2024 success

After a competitive run in the Indian Premier League 2024, where the Rajasthan Royals displayed teamwork, resilience, and tactical brilliance, the franchise are now focused on nurturing and utilizing in-form players. With the SMAT 2024 providing a platform for cricketers to shine, RR is eager to capitalize on the talent that has emerge??d. Fans are hopeful that these players will carry their domestic form into IPL 2025, helping the team secure their second IPL title.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 5 ?CSK players who made a strong impact in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

5 RR players who made a strong impact in SMAT 2024

1. Sanju Samson (Kerala): The skipper leads by example

Sanju Samson, the Rajasthan Royalsâ€?captain and a stalwart of their batting lineup, showcased his class in SMAT 2024 while representing Kerala. In five innings, Samson scored 136 runs, with a top knock of 75 against Services. Renowned for his elegant stroke play and tactical acumen, Samson’s leadership and batting will be in??strumental in RR’s campaign.

2. Kumar Kartikeya Singh (Madhya Pradesh): The spin sensation

Kumar Kartikeya Singh, the 26-year-old left-arm spinner from Madh?ya Pradesh, was one of the standout performers in SMAT 2024. With 17 wickets in 10 matches, he finished as the tournament’s second-highest wicket-taker. His ability t??o trouble batters with his variations makes him a vital cog in RR’s bowling attack for IPL 2025.

3. Sandeep Sharma (Chandigarh): The experienced paceman

Medium-fast bowler Sandeep Sharma brought his experience? to the fore during SMAT 2024, claiming nine wickets in seven matches for Chandigarh. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, Sandeep’s wealth of I??PL experience will bolster RR’s bowling unit, making him a key figure in crunch situations.

4. Nitish Rana (Uttar Pradesh): The versatile all-Rounder

Nitish Rana, representing Uttar Pradesh, delivered a solid all-round performance in SMAT 2024. In nine innings, he scored 111 runs? and picked up four wi??ckets, helping his team reach the quarterfinals. Although Uttar Pradesh fell short, Rana’s contributions underscored his value as a dependable all-rounder. Fans will look to him to provide stability and dynamism for RR in IPL 2025.

5. Akash Madhwal (Uttarakhand): The fast-bowling talent

Akash Madhwal, a 31-year-old pacer from Uttarakhand, impressed with his fiery spells in SMAT 2024, claiming eight wickets in five matches. Previously associated with Mumbai Indians, Madhwal’s raw pace and ability to deliver under pressure caught RR’s attention. His i??nclusion strengthens RR’s fast-bowling arsenal for the upcoming IPL season.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 5 MI players who made a st??rong impac?t in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

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Rajasthan Royals (RR) have officially revealed their complete squad for the IPL 2025 season, showcasing a mix of retained stalwarts, strategic buys, and exciting new talents from the mega auction. Led by their dependable skipper Sanju Samson, the Royals appear re?ady to mount a strong ?challenge for the coveted title.

Retained Core

The franchise has retained its key performers, including the dynamic duo of Sanju Samson and rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal. The explosive Shimron Hetmyer, wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel and all-rounder Riyan Parag also remain central to RR’s plans, ens?uring s??tability in the batting order.

In the bowling department, Sandeep Sharma was retained ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction wh??ich took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on November 24 and 25.

Key signings for RR at the IPL 2025 mega auction

Rajasthan made significant additions to their bowling arsenal with Sri Lankan spin sensations Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, adding variety and experience to their spin attack. The inclusion of domestic pace stars like Akash Madhwal and Tushar Deshpande further strengthens the squad’s depth.

The Royals have also brought in Nitish Rana, a versatile batter with leadership experience, and Afghan pacer Fazal Farooqi, who has impressed ??with his consistency in the T20 format.

Additionally, South African pacer Kwena Maphaka and uncapped talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Shubham Dubey add an element of surprise to the squad. The Royals have also bought back England pacer Jofra Archer into their camp.

Also READ: From Rishabh Pant to Jofra Archer – Top 10 most expensive buys at IPL 2025 Mega Auction

RR fans will be eager to see their new-look team in action as ??the franchise aims to replicate the glory of their inaugur??al IPL triumph in 2008.

Complete squad of Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2025

Sanju Samson (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhru??v Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Sandeep Sharma, Jofra Archer, Wainindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Nitish Rana, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Charak, Fazal Farooqi, Vaibhav Suryavans??hi, Kwena Maphaka, Kunal Rathore, Ashok Sharma.

Also READ: Delhi Capitals IPL 2025 Squad – Complete players list of DC after the mega auction

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The Rajasthan Royals (RR), one of the most exciting teams in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, are preparing for the 2025 mega auction with a clear focus on addressing gaps that cost them the title in previous seasons. Under Sanju Samson‘s capable leadership and the tactical brilliance of their newly appointed head coach, Rahul Dravid, the Royals aim to find the perfect balance in their squad. Having retained six players and spent INR 79 crores, RR enters the auction with INR 41 crore?s left to fill key?? positions and rebuild their team.

Retentions and key releases: Rajasthan Royals

RR has retained their captain Sanju Samson and emerging star Yashasvi Jaiswal, ensuring they hold on to their core batting lineup. However, their decision to release marquee players like Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal has been surprising. While Buttler has been an explosive match-winner at the top of the order, Chahal’s leg-spin played a pivo?tal role in their middle-over dominance.

Additionally, RR could not retain other stalwarts such as Trent Boult and Ravichandran Ashwin due to budget constraints and strategic restructuring. Th??e absence of the Right-to-Match (RTM) card further limits their ability to re-sign key players, compelling?? them to participate in bidding wars during the auction.

Auction purse and challenges

With INR 41 crores remaining, RR have the smallest purse among all franchises. This financial limitation makes their auction strategy critical. They must carefully prioritize their spending to secure high-impact players while maintaining enough funds for essential additions across all departments. Given the competition for marquee players like Arshdeep Singh and Liam Livingstone, RR will need to be pragmatic in their bidding. Retaining a balance between experienced performers and emerging talents wil??l be key to rebuilding their squad effectively.

Also READ: 5 players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can t??arget in IPL 2025 mega auction

IPL 2025: 5 players Rajasthan Royals (RR) can target in the mega auction

1. Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep has been one of the standout performers for India in T20 cricket. His left-arm pace, coupled with ?pinp?oint accuracy in death overs, makes him a highly sought-after bowler.

• Why RR Needs Him: With Sandeep Sharma being their only retained pacer, RR lacks depth in their bowling attack. Arshdeep can lead the pace unit, providing crucial breakthroughs in the powerplay and maintaining control in the death overs.
• Challenges: As a marquee player, Arshdeep will attract aggressive bids from multiple teams. RR’s limited purse might make it difficult to acquire him, but his match-winning potential makes him worth the gamble.

2. Trent Boult

Boult’s contributions to RR over the past three seasons were immense, with 59 wickets to his name. His ability to s??wing the new ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs in the powerplay was a game-changer for the team.

• Why RR Needs Him Back: Boult’s familiarity with the Royalsâ€?setup and his proven track record make him an ideal candidate to spearhead the bowling attack once again.
• Budget Considerations: While Boult is expected to command a high price, RR may strategically bid for him early in the auction to secure their bowling foundation.

3. Liam Livingstone

Livingstone is a dynamic all-rounder who can turn games with his explosive batting and part-time spin. Despite a lean IPL 2024 with Punjab Kings (PBKS), Livingsto?ne has shown his ability to adapt and excel under pressure.

• Why RR Needs Him: His presence can bolster the middle order, providing firepower and stability. Additionally, his leg-spin and off-spin options add flexibility to the bowling lineup.
• Potential Auction Value: Livingstone’s dip in form might make him more affordable, offering RR an opportunity to secure a proven performer at a reasonable price.

4. Washington Sundar

Washington has evolved into a dependable all-rounder, excelling with both bat and ball in T20 crick?et. H??is ability to bowl economical spells in the powerplay and contribute valuable runs down the order makes him a valuable asset.

• Why RR Needs Him: Sundar can slot in as a versatile option at number eight, strengthening both the batting depth and spin department. His recent performances for India underscore his ability to deliver in high-stakes matches.
• Competition: Sundar is likely to attract interest from multiple teams, but RR’s focused approach could make him a cornerstone of their revamped lineup.

5. Venkatesh Iyer

Iyer offers a unique combination of top-order batting and medium-pace bowling. While he had quieter seasons recently, his po??tential to perform under pressure remains undeniable.

• Why RR Needs Him: Iyer’s ability to adapt to various roles makes him a flexible option. He can open the innings, provide stability in the middle order, or bowl a couple of overs when needed.
• Value for Money: With age on his side and recent playoff experience with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Iyer is an affordable yet impactful addition.

Also READ: 5 players that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can target in the IPL 2025 mega ???auction

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England’s white-ball captain, Jos Buttler, has expressed his gratitude to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) following his release from the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction. Buttler, who joined the Ro?yals in 2018, became one of their standout performers over his seven-season tenure. His departure marks the end of a sig??nificant chapter for both him and the franchise.

Buttler’s journey with Rajasthan has been one of impactful performances and memorable moments. His aggressive style and consistent contributions earned him a central role in the team’s batting lineup. In the 2024 season, Buttler scored 359 runs across 11 matches, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 140.78, with two centuries to his name. His contributions often provided the Royals with a solid start, and his ability to play explosive innings made him a crowd favourite.

Jos Buttler reflects on his remarkable journey with Rajasthan Royals

After the announcement o?f his release, Buttler took to social media to share a heartfelt message, reflecting on his journey with the Royals.

“If it turns out that this is the end, thank you Rajasthan Royals, and everyone involved with the franchise for 7 incredible seasons together,” Buttler wrote on Instagram. “2018 kickstarted the best years of my cricketing career and many of my most cherished memories have come in a Pink shirt over the last 6 years.”

Also READ: IPL 2025 Retention – Complete list of players retained with their price

The post concluded with Buttler acknowledging the lasting bond he shares with the franchise. “Thank you for welcoming me and my family with open arms. Could write so much more but let’s leave it there,” added the wicketkeeper-batter.

Royals pay tribute to Buttler

The Royals responded to Buttler’s message with an emotional tribute, acknowledging his contribution to the team’s journey: “You will be one of the greatest ever to wear Pink. Forever a part of the Royals Family.” This fare?well underlines the deep connection Buttler has formed with the franchise and its fans.

As part of the IPL 2025 retention, none of the ten franchises opted to retain England players. In addition to Buttler, prominent English players like Moeen Ali, Liam Livingstone, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Phil Salt and Will Jacks were also released by their respec??tive franchises, setting u?p a potentially competitive auction for these talents.

Also READ: IPL 2025 – Venky Mysore discloses the reason behind KKR’s decision to release Shreyas Iyer

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The excitement surrounding the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is palpable, especially with the mega auction looming. Rajasthan Royals (RR), is one of the original franchises of the IPL and is based in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The team made history by winning the inaugural IPL title under the legendary Shane Warne, showcasing a blend of young talent and season??ed players. Known for their innovative approach to cricket, RR has consistently focused on nurturing emerging talents, making them a beloved franchise among fan??s.

Over the years, RR’s performance has seen ups and downs. After their initial triumph, they faced challenges, including a two-year suspension due to a betting scandal in 2015. They returned in 2018 and reached the playoffs but struggled in subsequent seasons. Notably, in 2022, they made a remarkable run to the finals but fell short against Gujarat Titans. The team’s resilience was evident as they qualified for playoffs again in 2024 but were eliminated by Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Despite not clinching the title since 2008, RR remains competitive and continues to be a significant player in the IPL landscape. With stars like Sanju Samson and Jos Buttler leading the charge, they aim to reclaim their former glory while upholding their legacy of innovat??ion and talent development.

As franchises strategize to build comp?etitive teams, RR faces crucial decisions regarding player retention. With a maximum of six players allowed to be retained, RR must carefully consider which talents to keep. Here are six players who are likely to stay with the franchise and the reasons behind these choices.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 6 players Che??nnai Super Kings?? (CSK) can retain ahead of mega auction

6 players RR can retain ahead of IPL 2025

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal: The rising star

Yashasvi Jaiswal has emerged as a formidable talent for RR. His performance in the 2024 season, where he scored 435 runs with a century and a half-century, showcases his potential as a future star for India. Jaiswal’s ability to anchor innings while also playing aggressively makes him an invaluable asset for the franchise. Retaining him not only secures a strong opener but also aligns with RR’s vision of nurturing homegrown talent.

2. Sanju Samson: The captain’s influence

Sanju Samson has been the backbone of RR’s batting lineup and serves as the team’s captain. His impressive tally of 531 runs in the last season, coupled with his leadership skills, makes him an automatic choice for retention. Samson’s experience and consistency provide stability and direction to the team, crucial for navigating the pressures of IPL matches.

3. Jos Buttler: The match-winning machine

Jos Buttler‘s prowess in T20 cricket is well-documented, making him one of the most sought-after players in the format. With 359 runs in just 11 innings during the last season, including two centuries, his ability to change games single-handedly is unmatched. Retaining Buttler not only strengthens RR’s batting but also brings invaluable international experience to the squad.

4. Trent Boult: The bowling ace

As one of the premier fast bowlers in T20 cricket, Trent Boult has consistently delivered for RR. His experience and wicket-taking ability make him a key player in any bowling lineup. Boult’s effectiveness on Indian pitches enhances RR’s bowling attack significantly, making his retention a strategic necessity.

5. Yuzvendra Chahal: The spin wizard

Yuzvendra Chahal’s reputation as one of IPL’s leading wicket-takers cannot be overlooked. His ability to turn matches with his spin bowling makes him an essential component of RR’s strategy. Retaining Chahal ensures that RR maintains a potent spin option, critical for success on Indian pitches.

6. Kunal Singh Rathore: The uncapped gem

Kunal Singh Rathore represents a strategic choice as an uncapped player. His recent performances have shown promise, and retaining him allows RR to invest in young talent while adhering to IPL rules regarding uncapped players. This move could pay dividends as Rathore matures into a reliable o?ption for both batting and wicketkeeping duties.

These six players represent a blend of youth and experience that can propel Rajasthan Royals toward their quest for a second IPL title in 2025. Each player’s unique contributions make them indispensable assets as RR prepares for the challenges ahead.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 6 players Mumbai Indians (MI) can retain ahead of mega a??uction

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In a heartwarming moment, former Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid was given a hero’s welcome as he made his first visit to the Rajasthan Royals High-Performance Centre after recently being appointed as the head coach of the franchise. The Rajasthan Royals shared a video of Dravid’s visit on their official Instagram account, which quickly garnered attention from fans and cricket enthusiasts alike.

Rahul Dravid warmly welcome at the Rajasthan Royals’ High-Performance Center

The excitement surrounding Dravid’s arrival at the state-of-the-art training facility located in Talegaon, Maharashtra. The video featured a special ceremonial welcome, with players dressed in military-style uniforms performing a parade in his honor, while young girls applied a traditional tilak on Dravid’s forehead as a mark of respect for the cricket legend.

“Welcoming India’s World Cup winner and our Head Coach to the Royals High-Performance Centre,â€?/em> Rajasthan Royals capt??ioned.