IPL 2025 Match 28: Rajasthan Royals Post 173/4 Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Jaipur
IPL 2025 Match 28: Rajasthan Royals Post 173/4 Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Jaipur
Date: Sunday, April 13, 2025 | Time: 3:30 PM IST | Venue: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
The Jaipur crowd witnessed a high-energy first innings as Rajasthan Royals (RR) posted a competitive total of 173 for 4 in their 20 overs against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The innings was anchored by a brilliant knock from Yashasvi Jaiswal and a late flourish from Dhruv Jurel, despite losing early momentum.
Toss and Captains’ Comments
RCB captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing the hard surface and the advantage of chasing under evening conditions. He also mentioned that the team is wearing green jerseys to raise awareness for environmental conservation.
Sanju Samson, leading RR, admitted he also preferred to bowl first but expressed confidence in his squad’s familiarity with home conditions. He confirmed the return of Wanindu Hasaranga, replacing Farooqi in the XI.
Rajasthan Royals Innings Overview
Total: 173/4 in 20 overs
Top scorer Yashasvi Jaiswal led the charge with a fluent 75 off 47 balls, featuring 7 boundaries and 4 sixes. He was well supported by Riyan Parag (30 off 22) and Dhruv Jurel, who stayed unbeaten on 35 off just 23 balls, accelerating the run rate towards the end.
Fall of wickets:
49-1: Sanju Samson (6.5 overs)
105-2: Riyan Parag (13.2 overs)
126-3: Yashasvi Jaiswal (15.6 overs)
169-4: Shimron Hetmyer (19.5 overs)
Bowling Summary – RCB
Josh Hazlewood was effective early, removing the dangerous Jaiswal, while Yash Dayal and Krunal Pandya claimed key wickets in the middle overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was economical in the final overs, maintaining pressure. However, the bowling attack lacked control during overs 14 to 18, allowing RR to gain momentum.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The surface at Sawai Mansingh Stadium was dry with a touch of green, offering light assistance to pacers early on. The pitch eased out for batting as the innings progressed. Weather remained dry and warm with little wind—perfect for evening cricket. Dew is expected to play a role later in the second innings, which may assist the chasing side.
Match Significance
This clash holds major playoff implications for both sides. Rajasthan Royals are aiming to solidify their position in the top four, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru are fighting to return to winning ways. A win today could shift momentum for either side as the tournament enters its middle phase.
Key Players to Watch
For RR, Dhruv Jurel’s explosive finishing and the return of Hasaranga make them a well-rounded unit. Jaiswal’s form is a major boost.
For RCB, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli, Liam Livingstone, and Philip Salt as they look to mount a strong chase. The finishing ability of Tim David and the spin of Krunal Pandya could also be crucial.
Expected Second Innings Strategy
Given historical data and today’s pitch behavior, chasing seems the better option in Jaipur, especially with dew settling in. RCB’s decision to bowl first aligns with venue trends, where chasing teams have won over 60% of matches.
The chase is set to be exciting, with RCB needing 174 to win. The stage is set for a thrilling run pursuit under the lights at Jaipur.
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