Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 25: Rajasthan Royals’ inconsistent run in the ongoing IPL 2025 continues to raise eyebrows, as the side slumped to its fifth straight defeat, this time against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. Chasing a formidable target of 206, the Royals once again stumbled in the final overs, eventually falling short by 11 runs.
Veteran pacer Sandeep Sharma, addressing the media post-match, expressed disappointment over the side's inability to deliver during critical phases of the match.
“We are getting opportunities in every game, but unfortunately, we’re not converting them. Whether it’s dropping key catches or losing wickets during pivotal moments, we are crumbling in crunch situations. And that’s what is hurting us,” Sharma admitted.
The Royals, who had a promising start to the season, now find themselves languishing in the eighth spot on the points table, with their playoff hopes hanging by a slender thread.
Another major concern for the Jaipur-based franchise is the continued absence of skipper Sanju Samson, who suffered a side strain during their nail-biting encounter against Delhi Capitals. Samson had earlier missed the opening fixtures due to a finger injury.
“Sanju’s absence is being felt in a big way. He brings balance, composure, and clarity with his captaincy and batting. These injuries at key junctures have unsettled us and cost us dearly,” Sharma remarked.
The Royals have failed to chase down totals in their last few outings, despite the required run rate being well within reach for most part of the innings. Sharma acknowledged this trend, adding that execution under pressure has been their undoing.
“In the last three matches, we were chasing targets at around 9 runs an over – which in today’s T20 game is quite achievable. But we kept losing wickets right when we needed to press the accelerator. Our execution has been below par,” he noted.
He also highlighted the dip in fielding standards and the lack of finishing power, which were once strengths for the team.
“Last season, players like Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Yashasvi Jaiswal stepped up in key moments. This year, we haven’t seen that same spark. Our fielding too has been a concern.”
As Rajasthan Royals prepare to take on Gujarat Titans, the current table-toppers, at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Monday evening, the pressure will be immense to bring their campaign back on track.
“We need to regroup, treat each game as a fresh opportunity, and play fearless cricket. The tournament is still open, but we have to act now,” concluded Sharma.