Lucknow: Rajasthan Royals bounced back to winning ways in the Indian Premier League 2026 season with a convincing 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
Jadeja Rescues Royals After Collapse
After being put in to bat, Rajasthan Royals suffered a dramatic top-order collapse, losing three wickets in quick succession. Yashasvi Jaiswal looked in good touch early but fell while attempting an aggressive stroke against Mohammed Shami, who then dismissed Dhruv Jurel on the very next ball.
With wickets tumbling, Ravindra Jadeja stepped up under pressure, playing a composed unbeaten knock of 43 off 29 balls. He stitched crucial partnerships with Donovan Ferreira and Shubham Dubey to guide RR to a competitive total of 159/6.
Archer Leads Bowling Charge
Defending a modest total, Rajasthan Royals bowlers delivered a disciplined performance. Jofra Archer was the standout performer, picking up 3/20 and playing a decisive role in dismantling the LSG batting lineup.
Early breakthroughs from Nandre Burger and a sharp run-out ensured Lucknow never settled into the chase. Archer also reached a major milestone, becoming RR’s all-time highest wicket-taker, going past Yuzvendra Chahal.
Marsh’s Fight Goes in Vain
Mitchell Marsh provided some resistance for Lucknow with a fighting 55, his first fifty of the season. He shared a 43-run stand with Nicholas Pooran, briefly raising hopes of a comeback.
However, Marsh’s dismissal—following a smart bowling change by RR skipper Riyan Parag—shifted momentum firmly back in Rajasthan’s favour.
Clinical Finish
Late strikes from Brijesh Sharma and Archer wrapped up the innings as Lucknow Super Giants were bowled out for 119 in 18 overs, handing RR a comprehensive win and ending their two-match losing streak.
What’s Next
Rajasthan Royals will now head home to face Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday in their first home game of the season.
Brief Scores
Rajasthan Royals 159/6 (20 overs) – Ravindra Jadeja 43*
Lucknow Super Giants 119 all out (18 overs) – Mitchell Marsh 55
RR won by 40 runs
