captain of rajasthan royals Riyan Parag Expressed satisfaction after his team's 30-run win over Mumbai Indians and qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs, but admitted that the team still needs to improve. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted a strong score of 205/8 in their 20 overs through a collective batting performance which saw contributions from many players. Their bowlers then put in a disciplined performance to restrict Mumbai Indians to 175 runs and seal a crucial win in the final league stage match.
Parag said that the team is happy with the result but its focus is on improving before the playoffs. He also explained that the decision to promote Jofra Archer in the batting order was a tactical move aimed at increasing the scoring rate on a pitch that required aggressive intent rather than cautious batting.
“Obviously it's good when things go according to plan. I know we've won the game, we've qualified, but there are a lot of areas we can do better. Wanted the set batsman to play a little longer. We needed runs. This is a wicket where you can't have two guys bat in the middle and not get a run off a ball. I wanted one guy to take the initiative, take risks. And the other guy could last a little bit longer. Really a lot of that this season. Have taken brave calls. That's how I like to lead,” Parag was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times after the match.
Parag said that Archer's dismissal of Hardik Pandya proved to be a crucial moment in the match. Parag pointed out that Hardik was building a vital partnership with Suryakumar Yadav as Mumbai Indians attempted to make a comeback during the run chase. With the win, Rajasthan Royals moved to 16 points and qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs. They will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the eliminator on May 27 at the Maharaja Yadvendra Singh International Cricket Stadium.
“I thought, Hardik – there is only one person who can get him out and that is Jofra. It is tough but all credit to him. I don't usually praise him too much, so he is not happy. I am definitely not fit. It was all mental toughness. Jofra is fine, he is strong as a rock. Jaddu bhai has some flaws. We should have qualified earlier. It is too late. Hopefully we will learn from everyone.” About our game,” Parag said.
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