Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson is set to miss the first three IPL games of this season. Young all-rounder Riyan Parag is named captain to lead the side in the absence of their regular skipper.

Riyan ParagSanju Samson sustained this finger injury during India's T20I series against England in February, which ruled him out of the remainder of the series and required surgical intervention.

However, the franchise said that Sanju Samson will not miss any games but he'll play as a specialist batter only. But he's yet to get clearance for wicketkeeping and fielding duties.

"Sanju Samson, an integral part of the Royals set-up, will remain a key contributor with the bat till he gets cleared for wicket-keeping and fielding. He will return as captain once fully fit," the franchise said in a statement.

"I am not completely fit for the next three games. There are lot of leaders in this group. In the last few years, some great people have taken care of this environment really nicely. For the next three games, Riyan will lead the team," Sanju Samson said.

"He is capable of doing it. I expect everyone to support him and be with him," he added.

Rajasthan Royals' first two home games of the season are scheduled to be played at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings on March 26 and March 30, respectively.