The Rajasthan Royals have suffered a significant setback in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign as their experienced right-arm medium pacer, Sandeep Sharma, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a fractured finger. The news comes as a considerable blow to the franchise, which is currently battling to secure a playoff spot in the fiercely competitive tournament.
The injury occurred during the Royals’ home game against the Gujarat Titans on Monday. While attempting to field a shot off his own bowling from Shubman Gill, Sharma sustained a fracture to his finger. Despite the evident pain, the 31-year-old displayed remarkable resilience and commitment by completing his full quota of four overs. He even managed to pick up a crucial wicket, showcasing his dedication to the team’s cause even while injured.
In an official statement released on Thursday, the Rajasthan Royals confirmed the unfortunate news. “Sandeep Sharma has been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering a fracture in his finger,” the statement read. “He showed immense bravery to continue bowling with this injury in the last match, and everyone at the franchise wishes him a full and speedy recovery.”
Sharma had been a consistent performer for the Royals in the ten matches he featured in this season, picking up nine wickets with a best bowling figure of 2/21. His ability to bowl crucial overs, especially in the middle and death phases of the innings, made him a vital cog in the Royals’ bowling attack. His absence will undoubtedly create a void that the team will need to fill quickly.
The Rajasthan Royals acknowledged the need to find a replacement and stated that the “team management is actively working on finalising his replacement, post which an official announcement will be made.” The franchise will be keen to find a like-for-like seamer who can provide experience and skill to bolster their bowling department in the crucial final stages of the league.
This injury adds to the woes of the Rajasthan Royals, who are already without the services of their regular captain, Sanju Samson, for some matches due to a side strain he sustained earlier in the tournament. While Samson has returned to lead the side, the loss of a key bowler like Sharma further complicates their playoff aspirations.
In the immediate aftermath of the news, Rajasthan Royals opted to include right-arm pacer Akash Madhwal in their playing XI for their match against the Mumbai Indians on Thursday. Madhwal, who previously played for the Mumbai Indians, made his debut for the Royals in this crucial encounter.
The cricketing fraternity and fans have lauded Sandeep Sharma’s commitment and bravery in continuing to bowl despite the injury. Social media platforms were flooded with messages wishing him a speedy recovery and praising his professionalism.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses towards its climax, the Rajasthan Royals will need to regroup and find a way to compensate for the absence of Sandeep Sharma. The team will be hoping that his replacement can step up and contribute effectively as they fight for a place in the playoffs. The remainder of the tournament promises to be a challenging one for the Royals as they navigate these injury setbacks.
