Injured Sandeep Sharma to miss remainder of IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals have suffered a setback with pacer Sandeep Sharma ruled out of the rest of IPL 2025 due to a fractured finger, the team confirmed on May 1. "He displayed great courage by bowling through the pain in the previous game. Everyone at the franchise wishes him a swift and complete recovery," read a statement from the Royals. The injury occurred during a home match against Gujarat Titans when Sharma hurt his finger trying to stop a powerful drive from Shubman Gill. Despite the blow, he was treated on the field and managed to finish his spell, delivering his final eight balls through the discomfort. His absence comes as a major loss for the Royals, who are still in contention for a playoff spot. Before the injury, the 31-year-old had claimed nine wickets in 10 matches, though he was slightly expensive, going at 9.89 runs per over. He missed the following clash against Mumbai Indians, with Akash Madhwal stepping into the lineup. The Royals are currently in the process of identifying a replacement, with an official announcement expected soon.