After qualifying for the playoffs in IPL 2024, Rajasthan will look to take the next step and secure the trophy in IPL 2025.
The recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 saw some exceptional performances from players from across India, many of whom will make an impact in IPL 2025.
Among them, Rajasthan Royals (RR) players showcased their skills and gained momentum ahead of the new season.
Also Read: 5 LSG players who were in sensational form in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy ahead of IPL 2025
After qualifying for the playoffs in IPL 2024, Rajasthan will look to take the next step and secure the trophy in IPL 2025.
Here, we take a look at five RR players who were in excellent form during the SMAT 2024-25 tournament.
Kumar Kartikeya
Kumar Kartikeya was bought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 30 lakhs in the IPL 2025 auction. He represented Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, where he gave an outstanding performance. He took 17 wickets in 10 matches. His best bowling figures were 3/25 and he maintained an economy rate of 7.63. Kartikeya finished as the second highest wicket-taker of the tournament.
This impressive performance has highlighted Kartikeya’s skill in T20 cricket. He shows his potential to make an impact for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. With his form in SMAT 2024, he will look to replicate this success and contribute significantly when given the opportunity in the upcoming season.
akash madhwal
Akash Madhwal was acquired by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.20 crore in the IPL 2025 auction. Madhwal, who represented Uttarakhand in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, showcased his skills. He took 8 wickets in 5 matches, his best performance being 3/32. Its economic rate was 8.73.
Madhwal’s all-round skills make him a valuable addition to the Rajasthan Royals team. He can serve as a reliable back-up to Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande, and can also be used as an impact player. Furthermore, his ability to bowl in the death overs adds depth to the team’s bowling attack, making him a useful asset for the upcoming IPL season.
Sandeep Sharma
Sandeep Sharma was signed by Rajasthan Royals for INR 4 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. He represented Chandigarh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 and Sandeep impressed with his performances. He took 9 wickets in 7 matches, including a best of 4/22, and maintained an economy rate of 7.48.
The pacer will be a key player for Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming season. That’s why the franchise trusted him enough to keep him. Known for his intricate bowling, Sandeep poses a challenge for the batsmen, making him an invaluable asset to the team’s bowling attack in IPL 2025.
Also Read: 5 Delhi Capitals players who were in sensational form in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy ahead of IPL 2025
Shubham Dubey
Shubham Dubey was bought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 80 lakhs in the IPL 2025 auction. Representing Vidarbha in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, Shubham scored 134 runs in 6 matches, with a best of 52* and an impressive average of 67.00 . His strike rate of 181.08 shows his ability to perform in T20 cricket.
For Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming season, Shubham will act as a reserve player. However, with the impact player rule in place, he could be asked to show off his batting skills when necessary. You will have to wait for your opportunity, but you must be prepared to take advantage of it when it presents itself.
Sanju Samson
Rajasthan Royals retained their captain Sanju Samson for INR 18 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. Representing Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, Samson scored 136 runs in 5 matches, with a best of 75. While his performance was decent, it did not fully reflect his potential, as his average was 27.20 and his strike rate was 149.45.
Before the tournament, Sanju was in excellent form in international cricket, having scored consecutive centuries against South Africa. With his form and experience, he will be eager to replicate his performances in the IPL 2025 season and lead the Rajasthan Royals to success.
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