PBKS vs RR: Rajasthan Royals move closer to perfection with strong batting and Archer’s pace
PBKS vs RR: Rajasthan Royals”s solid start after two consecutive wins
Rajasthan Royals took another big step towards their ideal match plan. After winning two games back-to-back in IPL 2025, their confidence was clearly visible. Against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, the team showed great balance with both bat and ball.
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Yashasvi Jaiswal’s much-needed return to form
Before this game, Rajasthan had beaten Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati. But even after that win, the team knew there were problems to solve. The biggest concern was Yashasvi Jaiswal’s poor form. This time, though, he looked better. His half-century may not have been fast, but it was important. He scored 67 off 44 balls and reminded everyone of his big-hitting ability.
Best opening partnership of the season
With Jaiswal back in touch and captain Sanju Samson fully recovered from injury, RR posted their best opening stand this season — 89 runs. This was also the first time they batted well beyond the powerplay phase.
Riyan Parag plays freely, middle-order looks settled
The strong start gave freedom to the middle-order. Riyan Parag, who captained the first three matches, played without pressure and scored 43 runs off 25 balls. Behind him, Nitish Rana was ready, who had scored 81 off 36 balls in the last game.
This meant Rajasthan didn’t need to try unusual things like sending Wanindu Hasaranga higher up the order.
A better and clear batting line-up
Now Shimron Hetmyer bats at number 5 and Dhruv Jurel at number 6 — a setup that adds balance. It raises a valid question: why was Hetmyer, who is meant to be a finisher, batting at number 8 before?
Though the innings wasn’t perfect, it showed the team’s best possible batting order. Their total crossed 200, the first such score in New Chandigarh this IPL. Sandeep Sharma said the score was “above par” on a pitch that wasn’t very batting-friendly.
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Samson hints at sticking to this formula
After the match, Sanju Samson said the team had found the right order and would likely continue with it in the next matches.
Enough bowling options without needing Impact Player
Because of smart planning, Rajasthan had enough bowlers even without bringing in Kumar Kartikeya as an Impact Player. He offers both finger and wrist spin but wasn’t needed this time.
Archer brings fire with the new ball
Even before Kartikeya could be called, Jofra Archer tilted the game in Rajasthan’s favour. His first over was full of pace and drama. He bowled out Priyansh Arya on the first ball with a delivery that hit the stumps.
Then Shreyas Iyer hit two classy shots over covers, but Archer had the last word. He bowled a short ball, called wide, which made Iyer try a big shot — and he lost his stumps too.
Archer’s comeback after a slow start
Archer had given away 109 runs in just 6.3 overs in his first two matches. Maybe it was the fear of injury or the Indian heat, but this time he looked sharp and confident.
Spin attack and death bowling do the rest
Archer’s early strikes gave space for others to follow the plan. Sandeep Sharma bowled two overs at the start and two at the death. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga took charge in the middle overs and stopped Glenn Maxwell and Nehal Wadhera from scoring big.
Rajasthan’s game plan finally comes together
This match showed the playing style Rajasthan Royals are aiming for. With two wins in a row, they now have more breathing room. Maybe coach Rahul Dravid didn’t need to write too many negative notes this time.
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