The Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 campaign ended in disappointment after a crushing 100-run defeat to Mumbai Indians on May 1 confirmed their elimination from playoff contention. It has been a mixed season for the franchise that has historically thrived on grooming young talent rather than chasing big-ticket names.
RR’s only IPL title came in 2008, the tournament’s inaugural edition. Since then, their closest brush with glory came in 2022, finishing runners-up. Yet, amid frequent setbacks, Rajasthan Royals continue to stick to their core philosophy—investing in and developing future stars rather than signing readymade superstars.
This belief was reinforced during the post-match press conference by fielding coach Dishant Yagnik, who said, “We don’t buy superstars, we make superstars. Whenever a new player has entered our side over the years, they weren’t stars already. They became stars at our franchise.”
Citing examples such as Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yagnik placed his faith in young prodigies like 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who recently earned plaudits for his mature batting. “Everyone was happy and emotional for him the way he batted. He will be a star soon,” he said.
RR have been questioned for releasing experienced players like Jos Buttler and Trent Boult, but Yagnik believes it’s time to look ahead. “Now we have Vaibhav, Jaiswal, and Sanju. We’ll go ahead with this side and prove our winning ability.”
Despite the optimism, the Royals’ failure to close out games remains a glaring issue. In at least three matches this season—against Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru—they were in control of run-chases but crumbled under pressure. From needing 17 off 12 against RCB to losing in a Super Over against DC, the inability to execute in crunch moments cost them six vital points.
Yagnik admitted these lapses hurt. “We were dominating in those games but fell short in execution. That’s how two points went away from us,” he said.
Fielding, one of RR’s traditional strengths, also let them down this year. Multiple dropped catches, including three against MI, allowed opponents to pile up match-winning totals. “It’s an off-season in terms of fielding. It happens to all franchises,” Yagnik noted.
On their bowling display against MI, Yagnik credited the opposition. “Rohit, Surya and others played brilliant cricket. Sometimes, skill overcomes plans,” he said.
Even their decision to bowl first backfired. “With overcast conditions and past trends at this venue, bowling first was logical. Dew was expected, but it didn’t come,” Yagnik concluded.
While IPL 2025 won’t be remembered fondly by RR fans, the Royals remain focused on the long game—building stars from scratch and sticking to their grassroots philosophy.
