By Rajasthan Royals’ Batting Woes: Identifying Areas for Improvement
The Rajasthan Royals (RR), one of the most dynamic franchises in the Indian Premier League, have experienced a turbulent journey in IPL 2025. While the team has a talented roster featuring explosive hitters and seasoned campaigners, their inconsistent batting performances have been a recurring issue that has hindered their progress this season.
With a few notable wins and some frustrating defeats, RR currently finds itself in the middle of the points table, struggling to string together back-to-back strong performances. In this blog, we’ll dissect the key batting issues troubling the Royals and suggest actionable solutions that can help them regain momentum in the tournament.
1. Over-Reliance on the Top Order
At the heart of RR’s batting struggles lies a glaring over-dependence on their top three — Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sanju Samson. These three have shouldered the bulk of the scoring responsibility, and when they fail, the rest of the lineup often falters.
For instance, in the match against Gujarat Titans earlier this season, RR lost their top three within the first 7 overs and ended up with a below-par score of 138, which GT chased down comfortably. This pattern has been all too familiar.
Solution:
The middle-order batters must assume greater responsibility. Players like Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and even young impact players such as Donovan Ferreira need to step up and steady the innings when early wickets fall. Leadership from Sanju Samson in stabilizing the middle overs is crucial too.
2. Inconsistent Middle-Order Contributions
The Royals’ middle-order has shown flashes of brilliance but has largely lacked consistency. While Riyan Parag has played a couple of good knocks, there hasn’t been a dependable presence who can anchor the innings and build meaningful partnerships under pressure.
Against Delhi Capitals, RR was cruising at 95/2 before a collapse saw them fold for 162 — a testament to the fragile middle-order foundation.
Solution:
RR could consider tweaking their batting order to give more experienced players like Shimron Hetmyer or Devdutt Padikkal time in the middle. Placing a dependable batsman at No. 4 could serve as a bridge between the top order and the finishers. The goal must be to prioritize partnership-building and strike rotation over flashy strokeplay in crucial phases.
The Curvv Super Striker of the Match between Rajasthan Royals & Kolkata Knight Riders goes to Riyan Parag. #TATAIPL | #RRvKKR | #CurvvSuperStriker | @TataMotors_Cars pic.twitter.com/EzptroDlGy
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 26, 2025
3. Absence of a Designated Finisher
While RR boasts explosive players like Hetmyer and Powell, there hasn’t been a consistent finisher who can close out games. The team has repeatedly faltered in the last five overs, either by losing quick wickets or failing to accelerate when required.
In a close game against Lucknow Super Giants, RR needed 36 off the last 3 overs with 6 wickets in hand but managed just 28 — falling short despite a strong platform.
Solution:
The franchise must identify a clear finisher — a player groomed specifically for that role. Shimron Hetmyer, with his prior experience, is the ideal candidate but needs a more defined role. The team should also give more opportunities to Rovman Powell to play fearlessly at the death.
Dhruv Jurel steadied the ship with 33(28)
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 26, 2025
Watch | 4. Vulnerability Against Spin Bowling
Another area of concern has been RR’s struggle against quality spin attacks. In matches played on slower pitches — such as in Chennai or Lucknow — their batters often get tied down in the middle overs, resulting in pressure and poor shot selection.
In the match against Chennai Super Kings, the spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Maheesh Theekshana strangled RR, giving away only 48 runs in 8 overs and claiming 4 wickets.
Solution:
To tackle spin better, RR’s batters need to work on their footwork, intent, and strike rotation. Incorporating more sweep and reverse-sweep shots into their repertoire, along with a proactive approach to singles, can help release the pressure during those spin-heavy overs.
5. Underutilization of Batting Depth
RR possesses depth in their lineup with all-rounders like Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, and even Yuzvendra Chahal capable of contributing with the bat. However, they often don’t get enough chances or clarity in their roles during tense moments.
Solution:
Flexibility is key. RR should be willing to shuffle their lineup based on match situations. If the team is in trouble, sending someone like Ashwin or Boult up the order to disrupt rhythm or provide a left-right combination can prove effective. Every batter should feel empowered to make a contribution, regardless of position.
Conclusion
Rajasthan Royals certainly have the firepower to be title contenders, but to reach their full potential in IPL 2025, their batting unit must address these pressing issues. By reducing their dependence on the top three, reinforcing the middle order, grooming a reliable finisher, improving gameplay against spin, and embracing their batting depth, RR can unlock greater consistency.
With half the season still ahead, it’s not too late for the Royals to regroup, refocus, and reignite their campaign. If they can iron out these batting flaws, the path to the playoffs — and possibly the trophy — is well within reach.
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