Rajasthan Royals (RR) have named Nandre Burger as the injury replacement for pacer Sandeep Sharma for the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.
Sandeep Sharma, who featured in 10 matches for RR this season and picked up 9 wickets, has been ruled out due to a finger injury. His absence leaves a key gap in RR’s pace attack as the team moves into the final stretch of the tournament.
Nandre Burger, the left-arm fast bowler from South Africa, returns to the Royals after representing the franchise in the IPL 2024 season, where he claimed 7 wickets in 6 matches. Burger joins the squad for a fee of INR 3.5 Crore.
Strategic move as Royals push for playoffs
With Rajasthan Royals in strong contention for a playoff spot in IPL 2025, the return of Burger adds depth, variety, and left-arm pace to the bowling attack. His prior experience with the team gives him an advantage in adapting quickly to the setup.
The decision reflects RR’s intent to maintain bowling momentum after Sandeep’s injury and further strengthens their squad for the crucial upcoming fixtures.
Sandeep Sharma ruled out after consistent campaign
Before his injury, Sandeep Sharma had been a reliable performer for Rajasthan, delivering consistent spells and picking up key wickets. His 9-wicket haul in 10 matches included strong performances in the powerplay and death overs.
The franchise is expected to lean on Burger’s pace and aggression as a direct replacement, with hopes that he will replicate his impact from IPL 2024 in the current campaign.
