IPL 2025: Riyan Parag Blames Middle-Order Failure After Rajasthan Royals’ 100-Run Loss to Mumbai Indians

May 2, 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) delivered a dominant performance on Thursday to hand Rajasthan Royals (RR) a crushing 100-run defeat, marking MI’s seventh win of the IPL 2025 season and their sixth consecutive victory. The match highlighted MI’s resurgence in the tournament, as they continue to build momentum heading into the business end of the league.

Batting first, MI posted a commanding 217/2, built on a strategic, calculated innings where they preserved wickets and unleashed in the final overs. The top and middle-order fired collectively, taking advantage of a sluggish RR bowling attack.

In response, RR faltered under scoreboard pressure. The team failed to establish any real partnerships and were bowled out well short of the target. This marks Rajasthan’s eighth loss of the season, increasing pressure on the squad and raising concerns about their consistency and finishing ability.

After the match, RR captain Riyan Parag acknowledged Mumbai’s superior performance.

“You’ve got to give credit to MI for the way they batted. They kept wickets,” said Parag.
“Yeah, 190-200 would have been ideal. We’ve been getting good starts. But it’s up to the middle order – myself, Dhruv (Jurel) – to step up. We’ve done a lot of things right and wrong. A lot of mistakes and small errors. We want to focus on them, and focus on the good as well.”

The defeat exposes Rajasthan Royals’ fragile middle order, which has struggled to capitalize on early momentum throughout the season. Parag’s remarks signal internal reflection as the team looks to regroup before their remaining fixtures.

For Mumbai Indians, the turnaround has been remarkable. After a rocky start, losing four of their first five games, they now sit among the top contenders, with their recent streak showcasing balance, depth, and a winning mentality.