Rajasthan Royals' Batting Weaknesses In IPL 2025: A Critical Analysis

Yashasvi Jaiswal for RR [Source: AP Photos]

With just 2 wins from 7 matches in IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals have struggled to find consistency despite their star-studded lineup. Based on a thorough analysis of their match scorecards, three significant batting weaknesses have emerged that have hampered their performance this season.

1. Excessive Top-Order Dependency

The data reveals that RR's batting lineup relies heavily on their top performers. In each match, the top three batters contribute an average of 72.24% of the team's total runs, creating an unhealthy dependency. When these key batters fail, the team struggles to post competitive totals.

This over-reliance is particularly evident in matches like the one against KKR, where RR could only manage 151 runs, their lowest total of the season. In games where their top order has fired, like against Punjab Kings (205/4) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (242/6), they've been much more competitive even when losing.

2. Inability to Adapt to Different Match Situations

Rajasthan Royals have struggled to calibrate their batting approach based on match situations, opposition, and pitch conditions. Their scores range from 151 to 242, revealing a team that hasn't developed tactical flexibility or situational awareness.

In pressure situations, particularly in run chases or when setting targets against strong bowling attacks, RR's batting has faltered. Against KKR, they managed only 151 runs in a full 20 overs, while against Gujarat Titans they were bowled out for 159. Meanwhile, their impressive 242 against SRH still resulted in a loss.

This inconsistency stems not merely from score variations but from an inability to construct innings strategically. When analysing their scoring patterns, a clear issue emerges: they haven't established effective partnerships through the middle overs (7-15) where matches are often won or lost. This is reflected in their high wicket loss rates during crucial phases of matches against teams like RCB, KKR, and GT.

3. Poor Middle-Order Returns

RR Total across matches [Source: OneCricket]

Despite having experienced international players in their middle order, RR's batting strength diminishes significantly after the top order. Players like Riyan Parag (average 28.83), Shimron Hetmyer (average 27.33), and others haven't delivered consistent performances to support the top order consistently.

The middle-order batsmen have been particularly vulnerable against quality bowling attacks, as seen in matches against Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders. Their inability to accelerate or rebuild after the fall of early wickets has been a recurring issue throughout the tournament.

RR Contribution by batting positions [Source: OneCricket]

Looking at the averages, there's a clear drop-off from the top three batsmen to the middle order. While Jaiswal, Samson, and Jurel have shown flashes of brilliance, the middle order has failed to capitalise on good starts or rescue the team from difficult situations consistently.

Players like Shubham Dubey and Jofra Archer in the lower middle order haven't provided the finishing touch that successful T20 teams require. This weakness becomes particularly apparent in close games, such as the tied match against Delhi Capitals, where a stronger middle-order contribution could have secured a victory.

Conclusion

Rajasthan Royals must address these three critical batting weaknesses to salvage their IPL 2025 campaign. Their excessive dependence on top-order batsmen, inconsistent team performances, and underperforming middle order have combined to create a batting lineup that lacks both reliability and depth.

For RR to turn their season around, they need to:

• Develop more consistent contributions from their middle order batsmen
• Establish a more stable batting approach that reduces the variance in their team totals
• Reduce their over-reliance on the top order by creating a more balanced batting lineup

The data clearly shows that when their top order fires, RR can challenge any team in the competition. However, their current approach lacks the consistency and balance needed to mount a serious challenge for the IPL title.

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