Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid admitted that the team’s death bowling has been a concern in IPL 2025. In their last two matches, they gave away more than 70 runs in the final five overs.
“We suffered a little bit with our death bowling. We conceded 77 in the last five, in the last game. The game earlier, we conceded 72.”
He pointed out that while the team has clear strategies, their execution hasn’t been up to the mark. Ahead of their next match against the Lucknow Super Giants, the focus is on tightening the performance during the death overs. Dravid explained that allowing 57 to 60 runs in the last five overs is manageable, but they have been giving away too many runs recently.
He said, “But it is more an execution issue. I think the quality is there.” Dravid believes that the bowlers have the skill but need to apply their plans better on the field.
Strategic Decisions
Rahul Dravid also addressed some of the decisions made in recent games that drew public attention. Choosing Sandeep Sharma over Jofra Archer for the Super Over against Delhi Capitals surprised fans, as did sending Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer. However, Dravid took full responsibility for those cchoices.
“The decisions are being made by me and with Sanju Samson being an integral part of that and consultation with our other coaches and our analyst team.” He defended the team’s internal process and showed faith in the joint decisions taken by him, captain Sanju Samson, and the coaching staff. Dravid stood by their strategies and assured that all decisions are based on team planning and input from the support group.
Team Dynamics and Auction Adjustments
The Rajasthan Royals have seen a few major changes in their squad this season. Key players like Jos Buttler, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Yuzvendra Chahal are no longer part of the team, which required adjustments in both the top order and spin attack. Dravid stated, “See, it’s not like that. If you see our opening partnership, they have given us quite good performances.”
He praised Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson for giving the team solid starts. Even though Samson had to leave the field due to injury in a recent game, Dravid remained confident in the remaining batters. On the topic of squad changes, he clarified that auctions often lead to changes in team composition.
“Auctions have some rules and you have to follow them,” Dravid said, explaining that IPL teams cannot retain all players due to these auction rules.
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