Introduction
The Rajasthan Royals (RR), known for its royal-blue jersey and a reputation to defy odds, is one of the most revered teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since winning the inaugural IPL title in 2008 under Shane Warne’s inspirational captaincy, RR has experienced varying levels of success over subsequent seasons. Here’s an attempt at deconstructing their journey through this grand tournament via numbers.
IPL Performance Over The Years: A Summary
- Inaugural Champions: RR started its journey with a bang by clinching the maiden IPL championship in 2008. Its victory was unexpected given it wasn’t as star-studded as some other franchises, but on-field strategies marked by clever acquisitions made them undisputed champions.
- Poor Run In Subsequent Seasons: Following their initial momentous victory, RR qualified for playoffs only three times (2013, 2015 & 2018) till date.
- Spot-fixing Scandal Suspension: Due to charges in spot-fixing during IPL’13 season, RR faced two-year suspension that lasted from July 2015 until mid-2017.
Specific Insights: Examining Key Performances & Statistics
Batting Analysis
- Ajinkya Rahane: As per batting statistics, Ajinkya Rahane leads the Royal charts. Holding the majority of records, he has scored maximum runs (2810 from 93 matches), maintaining commendable average (34.81) and boasting highest individual score (105*) against Delhi Capitals.
- Jos Buttler: Jos Buttler shares ‘Highest Individual Score’ honour with Rahane having also scored an unbeaten 105 runs against Mumbai Indians. On average though, Buttler has outperformed many in RR squad with breathtaking strikes.
- Sanju Samson: Sanju Samson, another Royal regular since his debut is the team’s hottest property. His knack for hitting maximums (73 sixes) and searing strike rate placed him amongst the Royals’ top brass.
It’s worth mentioning that despite not having any individual double centuries to its name, RR holds the record of highest-ever IPL score – a humongous 223/5 against Chennai Super Kings during the 2010 season.
Bowling Analysis
- Siddarth Trivedi: Trivedi tops all bowling ranks. Despite not being part of playing XI after 2013, he remains leading wicket-taker for Royals (65 scalps in 76 matches).
- Jofra Archer: The English fast bowler Jofra Archer dominates the charts when it comes to incredible economy rates and holding most ‘Player of The Match’ awards as a bowler for RR.
Rajasthan Royals: Detailed Statistical Breakdown
Total Matches & Victories
As per last updated statistics till IPL’20, the Blues played total 133 games winning a significant chunk – precisely 61 wins which amounts roughly to win-percentage of little over 46%.
Total Runs & Wickets Taken:
- In terms of batting mastery, Rajasthan cricketers combinedly stamped their mark by crossing ‘20000 run’ benchmark before end of IPL’19 season.
- On bowling frontier, Royals have taken approximately 700 wickets till now including contributions from virtually every player.
Highest Team Score & Crushing Victories:
The pinnacle of Rajasthan’s batting came in 2010 season with mammoth score of 223/5. The largest victory, however, was when they won by whopping ten wickets against Mumbai Indians during IPL’11 and similarly a comprehensive win over Delhi Capitals in the recently concluded IPL’20 with identical figures: Ten-Wicket Win!
Conclusion
Rajasthan Royals has undeniably witnessed highs & lows since their foray into IPL. Regardless of fluctuating fortunes and challenging times, their “never say die” spirit makes them one-of-the-most endearing sides to watch out for each season. In many ways, RR graph reflects unpredictability surrounding T-20 cricket which keeps fans across the globe hooked to this annual grand spectacle.
