Rajasthan Royals (RR) found themselves in yet another inexplicable collapse during their chase against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025, with the team falling short of a 206-run target despite being in a strong position. This marks the third consecutive match where RR has failed to close out a chase, with former cricketers and commentators expressing shock and disbelief over the team’s repeated self-destruction.
RR’s Chasing Woes Continue
In Thursday’s match, RR needed 18 runs off 12 deliveries when disaster struck. RR’s batting unit, once again, faltered under pressure. After a solid start, RR lost their last recognized batter, Shubham Dubey, on the first ball of the 20th over, with 17 runs still required. Former Australia batter Simon Katich, commenting on the game, didn’t mince his words, saying, “RR is butchering the chase.”
Despite earlier brilliance from Yashasvi Jaiswal (49 off 19 balls) and Dhruv Jurel (47 off 34 balls), RR collapsed to 194/9, losing by 11 runs. Their failure to chase down the target was reminiscent of their earlier matches against Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, where they also crumbled in the final stages.
Commentators’ Shock at RR’s Collapse
Former Zimbabwe cricketer Pommie Mbangwa, who was alongside Katich in the commentary box, expressed disbelief at RR’s continuous failures in the chase, stating, “Lightning strikes thrice. They were on their way to victory but somehow ended up losing. They can only explain it to themselves. They couldn’t exorcise the ghosts of the last two games.”
Their latest defeat means RR is now effectively out of the playoff race, with just two wins from nine matches in IPL 2025. The constant collapse in critical moments has left fans and former players questioning the team’s mentality and approach in high-pressure situations.
Hazlewood’s Heroics Lead to RR’s Downfall
RCB’s Josh Hazlewood was instrumental in RR’s downfall, picking up 4 wickets for just 33 runs. He triggered the collapse in the 19th over, taking two wickets in two balls and giving away only one run. Hazlewood’s brilliant death bowling left RR stranded, unable to finish the chase. The Australian pacer’s performance overshadowed RR’s earlier strong batting efforts.
Despite the early damage caused by Hazlewood, RR’s chase had started well with explosive knocks from Jaiswal and debutant Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who scored 16 off 12 balls, hitting two sixes. However, the momentum shifted as RCB’s bowlers, led by Hazlewood, seized control.
RCB’s Solid Batting Sets a Strong Foundation
Earlier, RCB posted a formidable total of 205/5, thanks to Virat Kohli’s brilliant 70 off 42 balls and Devdutt Padikkal’s aggressive 50 off 27 balls. Their 95-run partnership for the second wicket was a crucial phase in the match, setting a challenging target for RR.
RCB’s bowling, backed by Hazlewood’s heroics, proved too much for RR to handle. Despite a few late cameos from Jurel and captain Riyan Parag, RR couldn’t close the deal, falling short once again.
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