"It Has Been Hard For Me...": Sanju Samson Blunt Before IPL 2025, Reason Is This Rule

Ahead of IPL 2025 season, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson said letting go of his close friend, wicketkeeper-opener Jos Buttler, was the toughest thing for him and that if he had the power to change a rule in the IPL, it would be of never releasing players. RR retaining Samson, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shimron Hetmyer ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction meant they didn't have a slot to retain Buttler, who will now turn out for the Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season starting on March 22.

"IPL gives you the opportunity to lead a team and play at the highest level, but it also allows you to build close friendships. Jos Buttler is one of my closest friends. We played together for seven years, forming a long batting partnership. We knew each other so well and always kept in touch. He was like an elder brother to me.

"When I became captain, he was my vice-captain and played a huge role in helping me lead the team. Letting him go has been one of the most challenging things for me. Even during the England series, I told him over dinner that I was still not over it. If I could change one thing in the IPL, I would change the rule of releasing players.

"While it has its positives, on a personal level, you lose connections and relationships built over years. It has been hard for me, the entire franchise, the owners, the coaches, and everyone associated with RR. Jos was family to us," said Samson to JioHotstar on Wednesday.

At the same time, Samson also spoke on the impact of retaining key players like Jurel, Parag, and Hetmyer. "Of course, it plays a huge role. Having players who are already part of the team creates a great connection. It makes my job easier because we know each other well, both on and off