Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson believes that despite it being a new season, the pressure of matching their performance from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season will always be there. RR lost the 2022 final against Gujarat Titans (GT) and will face off against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their 2023 opener on April 2.
Speaking during RR's jersey launch, Samson opened up about his journey with the team, saying that the last 10 years have been thoroughly exciting and challenging. Samson joined RR in 2013 but moved to Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) for two seasons before his return to Rajasthan. He was made the team's captain in 2021 after Steve Smith was released.
"I joined Rajasthan Royals when I was just 18. Now I'm 28 and it's been a remarkable journey so far. The last ten years have been thoroughly exciting and challenging. This is my team and I always want to see RR doing well," said Samson.
"Pressure of matching last year's show will always be there. It was a dream performance by the entire team to reach the summit clash in 2022. Having reached the final last year, people will be expecting us to dazzle yet again. We have no choice but to play well and match last year's feat if not doing better," the wicketkeeper-batter added.
He also showered praise on the former Royals player and their current coach Kumar Sangakkara, saying that they are fortunate to have him as their coach.
"We are fortunate to have Sangakkara as our coach. He is a legendary player and having him in the dressing room and on the ground while practising is a big boost for us. With his vast experience, we are always in the process of improving ourselves. He is constantly thinking of different strategies for the benefit of the squad," said Samson.
Having won the inaugural edition of the cash-rich league in 2008, the Royals will hope to continue their form and clinch their second IPL title after falling at the final hurdle in 2022.
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