Rajasthan Royals (RR) will be looking to bounce back from recent setbacks as they host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 28th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday, April 13, 2025. This match marks a significant return for the Royals to their home ground after two away fixtures, and they are eager to capitalize on the familiar conditions to secure a vital win.
Both teams come into this contest under pressure, having suffered defeats in their last matches. RR, currently sitting seventh in the points table with two wins and three losses, was recently thrashed by Gujarat Titans by a hefty 58 runs. In contrast, RCB finds themselves fourth with three wins from five matches but also faced disappointment in their last outing, losing to Delhi Capitals by six wickets.
As the teams prepare for this crucial clash, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on the individual battles that could shape the outcome. One of the most anticipated matchups is between RCB's batting stalwart Virat Kohli and RR's fiery pacer Jofra Archer. Kohli, the highest run-scorer in IPL history, has faced Archer multiple times, managing to score 30 runs off 26 balls without being dismissed. This duel promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans.
RR captain Sanju Samson will also be looking to make his mark. He has scored 178 runs in five matches this season, averaging 35.60, and will be pivotal in leading his team’s batting effort. He has previously been successful against RCB's Bhuvneshwar Kumar, scoring 30 runs off 26 balls without being dismissed, which could provide a psychological edge heading into the match.
For RCB, maintaining the momentum of their explosive opening pair, Phil Salt and Kohli, will be crucial. Salt, who has been in good form, alongside Kohli, will need to set a solid foundation for the middle order, which includes the likes of Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar. RCB's batting lineup has shown promise but suffered a collapse against Delhi, raising concerns about their consistency.
RCB’s bowling attack, led by Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, has delivered some impressive performances this season. However, their spin duo of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma will need to step up, particularly on a pitch that is expected to slow down as the match progresses. The Sawai Mansingh Stadium has historically favored bowlers, making it essential for both teams to adapt quickly.
In his pre-match comments, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar emphasized the importance of confidence and teamwork. "We take it one game at a time. If everyone is confident, we look to make the most of it. We'll focus on playing good cricket," Patidar stated. He also highlighted the significance of wearing their special green jersey, an initiative aimed at raising awareness for environmental issues, making this match even more special for the team.
As for RR, they will need to enhance their bowling strategy following the recent drubbing against Gujarat. Jofra Archer, who has been finding his rhythm, will be key to containing RCB’s batting onslaught. His performance, alongside veteran pacer Sandeep Sharma, will be crucial as they look to restrict runs and take early wickets.
The pitch at Sawai Mansingh Stadium is expected to assist bowlers, particularly spinners, with anything over 170 runs being considered a competitive total. Both teams will need to strategize effectively to navigate the conditions and put up a strong fight.
Historically, RR has had the upper hand at this venue against RCB, winning five of the nine matches played here. This record could provide a psychological advantage for the Royals as they step onto the field. The last encounter between these two teams was the IPL 2024 Eliminator, which RR won by four wickets, adding to the rivalry's intensity.
As the match day approaches, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with high stakes and fierce competition. The clash is set to begin at 3:30 PM IST, and it will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network and available for streaming on JioCinema and Hotstar.
In summary, both Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are desperate for a win to boost their playoff ambitions. With key players on both sides looking to make an impact, this match promises to be a captivating encounter in the IPL 2025 season.
