The Rajasthan Royals secured a thrilling 12-run victory over the Delhi Capitals in their second match of the 2024 IPL season. The win at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur came after a rollercoaster ride, as admitted by Royals skipper Sanju Samson in the post-match presentation ceremony.
Early Setbacks Overcome by Parag’s Blazing Knock
Despite losing their top three batsmen – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson himself, and Jos Buttler – for a combined tally of just 31 runs, the Royals managed to fight back admirably. The turning point arrived with the emergence of young Riyan Parag at the crease.
The youngster displayed remarkable maturity, initially playing cautiously on a swinging and seaming wicket. However, he soon unleashed an exceptional innings, accumulating an unbeaten 84 runs off just 45 deliveries. His knock, studded with seven fours and six sixes, propelled the Royals to a competitive total of 185/5.
Samson Lauds Parag’s Heroics
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Sanju Samson showered praise on Parag. “It was a bit of a rollercoaster,” he admitted. “The way we started the first 10 overs, we thought we might need Rovman [Powell] to bat early. But the way the batters took responsibility after that was fantastic.”
Samson particularly highlighted Parag’s contribution in the final over. “Sanga [Kumar Sangakkara, Royals Head Coach] and I had several chats around the 13th-17th over,” he said. “But what Riyan did in that 20th over made it easy for us. It’s all about gauging the zone they’re in, and you have to take decisions accordingly.”
“Riyan has been a big name for the last 3-4 years,” Samson continued. “People everywhere I go, especially in Kerala, ask me when he’s going to come good. Hopefully, this is the season for him. He needs to keep his head down – he has a lot to give to Indian cricket.”
Delhi’s Chase Falters Despite Warner’s Knock
Chasing a target of 186, the Delhi Capitals had reason to be optimistic, especially with the dew settling in. However, their batting faltered despite a promising start from openers David Warner (49) and Mitchell Marsh. The dismissal of Marsh triggered a mini-collapse, and captain Rishabh Pant failed to convert a decent start. The middle order lacked the impetus to chase down the target.
Royals Bowlers Deliver Decisive Blows
The Rajasthan bowlers deserve significant credit for restricting Delhi. Nandre Burger, their designated Impact Player for the match, justified his selection with early strikes, removing both Marsh and Ricky Bhui in a span of just two balls. Yuzvendra Chahal, the seasoned leg-spinner, also showcased his prowess, picking up two crucial wickets in the middle overs. Sandeep Sharma and Avesh Khan held their nerve in the death overs, bowling tight lines and executing crucial yorkers to secure the win for the Royals.
“Sandy [Sandeep Sharma] was calm and Avesh [Khan] as well,” Samson said, praising his bowlers. “That’s what prompted me to take that call” (referring to using them in the death overs).
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