Still winless after three matches, Rajasthan Royals stumbled again in IPL 2026. This time, under the lights in Delhi, they faced defeat at the hands of Delhi Capitals. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the margin was five wickets – another blow to their fading hopes. Hopes once high now hang by a thread. Each loss digs deeper into their chances of reaching the playoffs
Facing Delhi Capitals, Royals stumbled badly in a game they really needed to win. Their second defeat this season left them looking lost on the field under Riyan Parag’s captaincy. On that note, ex-India player Kris Srikkanth stepped into the spotlight. He suggested tensions inside the RR dressing room might be playing a part
When there’s a spot on the line, that’s when you take risks like this. Facing DC, they had no better opportunity than today. For this game, leaving out Jadeja wasn’t an option. Who leaves him behind when picking the team? That decision made no sense. Something inside the group feels off. Not showing up for the six-hitting award? Parag stayed away entirely. A clear sign of trouble behind the scenes, according to Srikkanth. He shared these thoughts in a clip posted online.
Stupidity showed up when neither Jadeja nor Bishnoi took the field. Could Ravi Singh really stand in for Jadeja? A proven all-rounder set aside, swapped for an untested batter right when it mattered most. That move made RR seem disinterested in victory. Almost as if losing suited them better. Brilliant batting from Parag – yet something feels off about the team’s hunger. Losing focus by leaving out Jadeja, that’s where things went wrong,” he said.
Royals still have a chance to reach the playoffs
Rajasthan Royals still face matches versus Lucknow Super Giants, then Mumbai Indians during the group phase. Since neither of those sides remains in contention, hopes are high for strong performances when they meet on field. Winning both encounters could open a clear path toward playoff qualification
