IPL 2025: Sanju Samson reflects on journey from Rahul Dravid's protégé to captain of Rajasthan Royals

Sanju Samson, the Rajasthan Royals captain, recently reflected on his journey with the franchise, which began under Rahul Dravid's leadership in 2013. The situation has now evolved in 2025, with Samson leading the team while Dravid returns as the coach.
"It's quite funny how things work out. In my first season, Rahul sir was the one who spotted me during the trials. He was the captain back then, looking out for young talent. After watching me, he came up to me and said, 'Okay, can you play for my team?' From that day to today, it feels surreal. Now, I am the captain of the franchise, and Rahul sir has returned after so many years to coach the team," Samson shared during an interaction with JioHotstar.
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"It's a unique and special feeling. He was always part of the Rajasthan Royals family, and we are all grateful to have him back. I have played under him both at Rajasthan Royals and in the Indian team when he was the coach. But now, having him as a coach while I captain the side is something truly special. I am looking forward to learning a lot from him in the coming years, and it's really exciting."

Rahul Dravid joined Rajasthan Royals as head coach after signing a multi-year contract last year. His role as India's head coach concluded in June following India's victory in the T20 World Cup, their first ICC title since the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Dravid's association with Rajasthan Royals includes his stint as captain in IPL 2012 and 2013, followed by roles as team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015 seasons.
Sanju Samson reflected on leading the franchise, what to expect from Dravid's stint and the advice he gets from the Indian veteran.

On the experience of captaining Rajasthan Royals: "We've had one of the best IPL cycles in the last three seasons, with the highest winning percentage and some of the best players Rajasthan Royals has ever had. We had all the superstars from around the world, and it felt like a family. But then, as per IPL rules, you have to let go of that family and build a new one again. So that's where we are now. We've brought in some interesting players, from a 13-year-old to a 35-year-old, creating a mix of youth and experience in the squad. Personally, I'm very excited about this challenge—meeting new people, building relationships, and understanding the personalities behind the performances. That’s where the real fun lies. The work begins long before the IPL, during the 7-10 days of preparation. I try to spend as much time as possible outside my room, talking to my players and coaches, building that camaraderie. And then, we embark on the journey together as a unit. That’s where the joy of being a captain comes in."

On what to expect from Dravid in his second stint: "I’ve always observed him from a distance and also been close to him. He’s a top-notch professional who ensures that every aspect of preparation is taken care of. I was with him last month in Nagpur, Talegaon, and saw how involved he is. From 10 AM in the morning till 5 PM in the evening, in the heat, he was there watching batsmen bat and bowlers bowl, interacting with them, discussing strategies with the coaches. He is fully committed to the team, from A to Z. That’s something I admire and want to learn—how to prepare better. Preparation is a key part of his character, and I want to incorporate that into my own approach."
On whether Rahul Dravid gets tired: "That’s his love for the game. That’s his tribute to cricket. I remember sitting at the back and seeing him standing in the sun, near the sightscreen, doing shadow practice all by himself. Even now, he is fully immersed in the game. There is so much to observe and learn from his passion."
On valuable advice he received from Dravid in his early days, which he now applies as a captain, Samson said, "As a captain, I see how he led from the front—not just through his skills but off the field as well. He never missed an optional practice session when he was the captain. I observed how he treated young players in the dressing room, how he communicated with seniors, how he handled team meetings, and how he welcomed new players. All those small but significant things shaped my understanding of leadership, and I try to follow the same approach."
The Rajasthan Royals, under Sanju Samson's leadership, will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad, last year's runners-up, in an away match on March 23.