In the world of cricket, intense on-field battles, nail-biting finishes and breath-taking performances are a commonplace. However, few have had managed to leave an indelible mark in the annals of this sport than those donned in pink, fondly referred to as the “Rajasthan Royals”. The Indian Premier League team has been home to some extraordinary batting displays, etched forever in our memories. In this piece, we shall revisit five such exhilarating innings that truly stand out.
- 1. Ajinkya Rahane’s 105* Against Delhi Capitals (2019)
- 2. Yusuf Pathan’s Clinching 100 Against Mumbai Indians (2010)
- 3. Shane Watson’s Bold Century Against Chennai Super Kings (2013)
- 4. Rahul Dravid’s Resilient Knock Against Punjab Kings(2011)
- 5. Sanju Samson’s Heroic 102 Against Sunrisers Hyderabad (2019)
1. Ajinkya Rahane’s 105* Against Delhi Capitals (2019)
Ajinka Rahane, India’s Test Vice Captain delivered one of his best knocks during IPL 2019 season when the team faced against Delhi Capitals at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.
- Date: April 22, 2019
- Innings: Rajasthan Royals’ first innings
- Score: 105 not out from 63 balls (11 fours, 3 sixes)
Despite playing under tough conditions, Rahane played a calculated innings with stylish drives and lofted hits over the boundary ropes. His massive score helped establish a competitive total for his side and showcased why he is often considered amongst India’s dependable batsman.
2. Yusuf Pathan’s Clinching 100 Against Mumbai Indians (2010)
What would remain as one of the most stunning onslaughts by Yusuf Pathan, came against none other than Mumbai Indians.
- Date: March 13, 2010
- Innings:Rajasthan Royals’ second innings
- Score:100 runs off 37 balls (9 fours, 8 sixes)
Despite being on the backfoot while chasing a mammoth total of 213 runs, Pathan was undaunted. He unleashed a hurricane batting display to smash a century in just 37 deliveries; the fastest hundred in IPL history then. His blistering knock ensured that Rajasthan are never considered lightly.
3. Shane Watson’s Bold Century Against Chennai Super Kings (2013)
Australian all-rounder Shane Watson is no stranger to flair and flamboyance. In IPL 2013, he showcased exactly these attributes against CSK.
- Date: May 12, 2013
- Innings:Rajasthan Royals’ first innings
- Score:101 from 61 balls (6 fours and as many sixes)
Watson ravaged arguably one of the strongest bowling line-ups in the competition with complete impunity. The sheer dominance during his stand at the crease was instrumental in establishing an unreachable target for CSK.
4. Rahul Dravid’s Resilient Knock Against Punjab Kings(2011)
There has been none more graceful on the cricket pitch than Rahul Dravid, nicknamed ‘The Wall’. A classic example of this grace emerged of April, 2011 against PBKS.
- Date: April 21, 2011
- Innings:Rajasthan Royals’ second innings
- Score:66 from 48 balls (7 fours and two sixes)
Although not as high scoring as others on this list, Dravid’s resilient innings came under tremendous pressure, while chasing a steep target. His grit and determination was emblematic of his career and stood as an example for young players in the squad.
5. Sanju Samson’s Heroic 102 Against Sunrisers Hyderabad (2019)
The world sat up to take notice when Sanju Samson fired on all cylinders against SRH.
- Date: March 29, 2019
- Innings:Rajasthan Royals’ second innings
- Score:102 not out from 55 balls (10 fours, 4 sixes)
A true exhibition of timing, power and class was showcased by this talented youngster taking apart a formidable bowling line-up inflicting heavy damage.These are just some glimpses into the rich tapestry that makes Rajasthan Royals more than just another cricket team. The Royals with their spirit have been winning hearts since inception proving that they can endure unimaginable pressures with remarkable grace and resilience, exemplifying the essence of ‘Halla Bol!’
