Both captain Sanju Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid openly acknowledged the team’s underwhelming performance and confirmed that substantial changes are underway as they prepare for the next season. Despite the overall struggles, a handful of players showcased their talent and emerged as bright spots in an otherwise lackluster season
Among the few shining lights for Rajasthan Royals was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Purchased for Rs 1.1 crore during the mega-auction, Suryavanshi wasn’t part of the starting XI at the beginning of the season
However, following Sanju Samson’s injury, the young left-hander seized the opportunity to cement his spot at the top of the order. Displaying remarkable composure, the 14-year-old carved his name into the record books by smashing the fastest century by an Indian in IPL history during a match against Gujarat Titans
With a century and a fifty-plus score to his credit, he amassed 252 runs in seven innings at an impressive average of 36. Retaining Suryavanshi seems an obvious choice, given his immense potential and bright future
The raw pace and experience of Jofra Archer remain invaluable for Rajasthan Royals. Bought for a hefty Rs 12.50 crores in the mega-auction, Archer had a challenging start, conceding the most runs by any RR bowler in a single IPL game against Sunrisers Hyderabad
Nonetheless, the English pacer bounced back emphatically, showcasing his lethal skills. At 30 years old, Archer took 11 wickets in 12 innings this season while maintaining an economy rate below 10. His ability to deliver breakthroughs and maintain pressure makes him a crucial asset deserving retention
Another promising retention candidate is Akash Madhwal, whose performances have revealed great promise. Previously representing Mumbai Indians, Madhwal stepped up admirably during Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, leading the bowling attack with maturity. Rajasthan Royals were slow to include him in the playing XI this season, which arguably cost them valuable matches
The right-arm pacer, bought for Rs 1.2 crore, played four matches and claimed four wickets, including a memorable three-wicket haul against Chennai Super Kings. Given his potential to evolve into a frontline bowler, Madhwal is a strong contender for retention.
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