April 25, 2025: Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has voiced his frustration and confusion regarding Rajasthan Royals’ underwhelming performance in the ongoing IPL 2025.
After their narrow 11-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Thursday, Gavaskar expressed his disappointment at the team’s approach, particularly with someone as esteemed as Rahul Dravid in charge as the head coach. The loss marked RR’s fifth consecutive defeat, further compounding their struggles this season, and raising serious questions about the team’s strategy.V
Despite having one of India’s most respected cricketers as their head coach, Rajasthan Royals have failed to execute a consistent and strategic game plan. Their defeat against RCB highlighted yet another instance of the team faltering under pressure during crucial moments, which has become a recurring theme in IPL 2025. With the likes of experienced players in the squad and Dravid’s reputation for precision and discipline, many expected RR to be more competitive, especially in tight run-chases.
Gavaskar, who was present at the ground for the match, didn’t hold back when discussing the team’s shortcomings. He pointed out that while he had observed RR’s previous matches from afar, seeing them play live made the flaws in their approach even more apparent.
“I was at the ground today, and you could actually see the kind of cricket being played. With someone like Rahul Dravid as the coach, it was quite baffling. It was unthinking cricket,” said Gavaskar on Star Sports. “Dravid was always so precise in his thinking, and I would’ve thought that kind of approach would’ve seeped into some of the Rajasthan batters,” he added.
The legendary batsman questioned the team’s decision-making, particularly when it came to chasing down totals in high-pressure situations.
“Where is the thought process there? You can’t expect inexperienced players to always get it right, but still… it’s just a different kind of cricket,” said Gavaskar. He implied that RR’s lack of composure during pressure situations wasn’t just down to individual mistakes but also a deeper flaw in their overall approach to the game.
Rajasthan Royals have repeatedly failed to capitalize on strong starts during run chases this season. They have suffered narrow defeats in the final overs, including a Super Over loss to Delhi Capitals and a 2-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants. Their inability to finish games in tight situations has left them struggling in the middle of the points table.
Currently languishing in 8th place with just two wins from nine matches, RR’s hopes of reaching the IPL 2025 playoffs are hanging by a thread. With the season looking almost beyond repair, Rajasthan Royals will need a dramatic turnaround to salvage any pride. Their next match, against Gujarat Titans on April 29, will be crucial as they attempt to salvage their campaign and keep their playoff hopes alive.
As the team continues to flounder, questions are mounting not only about the players’ performances but also about the strategic approach under Dravid’s leadership. Will RR be able to make the necessary adjustments, or will they remain stuck in their slump for the rest of the season? Only time will tell, but for now, the frustration and disappointment are palpable, both from fans and pundits alike.