The chances of Rajasthan Royals reaching the IPL playoffs took a major blow after a heavy 100-run defeat to Mumbai Indians, leaving them with just six points from 11 matches and positioned near the bottom of the table. Despite the disappointing campaign, fielding coach Dishant Yagnik remains optimistic about the franchise’s approach and future prospects.
Dishant Yagnik defended the team’s decision to release key players such as Jos Buttler and Trent Boult ahead of the mega auction, acknowledging their absence but insisting it aligned with the Royals’ long-term philosophy. He explained that the franchise does not prioritise acquiring established stars during the auctions but rather believes in identifying promising young talent and developing them into top-tier players. According to Dishant Yagnik, this belief in creating stars from within forms the core of Rajasthan Royals’ identity.
Reflecting on the current squad, he noted that many of the last season’s standout performers were relatively unknown before joining the team but went on to achieve star status. He expressed similar confidence in the current crop of youngsters, asserting that today’s lesser-known names will soon rise to prominence. The Royals’ approach, he explained, is based on long-term vision and player development rather than chasing immediate star power.
The team, which reached the playoffs last year with a strong performance, has struggled this season, particularly with its youthful batting lineup. In the recent match against Mumbai, promising opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi — who earlier became the youngest IPL centurion — was dismissed for a duck, and Yashasvi Jaiswal managed only 13 runs, with the team collapsing for 117 in response to Mumbai’s 217.
Despite the setback, Dishant Yagnik stood by his young players. He cited the excitement and joy surrounding Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s earlier century against Gujarat Titans as a sign of the potential within the squad, reiterating the belief that these players will eventually shine on the big stage. He urged fans and critics alike to shift their focus from departed players to the promising talent still present, highlighting captain Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi as the pillars for future success.
When asked about the franchise’s strategy for the next auction, Dishant Yagnik emphasised that such discussions were premature. He said that decisions will be made only after a thorough analysis when the time is right.
Dishant Yagnik also acknowledged Mumbai Indians’ performance, saying that when players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya execute their skills effectively, credit must be given. He compared it to how Gujarat Titans praised Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s shot-making in a previous match, suggesting that excellence should be recognised regardless of the team.
Addressing concerns over the Royals’ fielding, which has drawn criticism due to recent dropped catches, Dishant Yagnik highlighted the team’s consistent fielding record over the years. He pointed out that from 2018 to 2023, Rajasthan had been among the top three fielding sides in the league and that every team eventually goes through a rough patch. Referencing both highs and lows during his tenure as fielding coach, Dishant Yagnik emphasised that what matters the most is consistent preparation.
On the other side, Mumbai Indians pacer Deepak Chahar spoke about the value of bowling in tandem with experienced players like Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. He shared that having such seasoned teammates creates a support system during tough overs and enhances overall bowling performance. Deepak Chahar, who delivered an economical spell including the key wicket of Vaibhav Suryavanshi, credited the collective strength of the bowling unit for making life difficult for opposing batters.
What is your take on RR’s approach despite performing so badly in the IPL 2025?
