"We don't want what happened to PBKS to happen to us": RR's Jofra Archer after win over SRH
Chandigarh, May 28
Jofra Archer's three wickets inside the powerplay were crucial for Rajasthan Royals as they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator of IPL 2026.
Speaking after the win, Archer said, "Apart from the figures, I thought I bowled pretty alright. I think all of the guys bowled alright. We stuck to our plans, we stuck to our lengths, and we were rewarded tonight."
He dismissed Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan within his first three overs to dismantle the SRH top order when they were chasing a big target of 244 runs in a do-or-die clash.
On taking the wicket of Abhishek Sharma on the second delivery of the first over, he said, "Usually, the team that gets the most wickets in the powerplay usually wins the game. So it's a lot of pressure, but I take it on, and I do my best for the team."
Now, the Royals are just two wins away from their second IPL title. They need to defeat the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 to enter the final, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are waiting for the other finalist.
Archer said his side is heading in the right direction, but is wary of a late-season slump. After starting unbeaten in their first seven matches, Punjab Kings lost six on the bounce and missed out on the playoffs -- a collapse he doesn't want repeated.
On the plans going forward in the tournament, he said, "Every game at a time. I think we are at our peak, well, I don't want to say peaking, and we're going in the right direction at the right time. We don't want what happened to Kings XI [PBKS] to happen to us. So I think we're on the right path. Everyone chipping in every game, and that's the important part."
The 15-year-old teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi played a big knock of 97 runs off just 29 balls with the help of 12 sixes and five fours, which helped RR set a 244-run target.
Speaking on Sooryavanshi's knock, he said, "It was very exciting. The more runs he (Sooryavanshi) scores, the more runs we have to defend. So he can go on and get 150, so it's good for the boys when he gets a lot of runs."
RR will take on GT in Qualifier 2 on Friday at the Maharaja Yadavindra International Stadium in New Chandigarh.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Jofra's warning about PBKS collapse is actually smart thinking. It's easy to get complacent after a winning streak. What I love about this RR team is that everyone is contributing - from Archer's bowling to Samson's captaincy to Sooryavanshi's batting. They look like a complete unit. But let's not forget, Gujarat Titans are no pushovers. Should be a cracking qualifier!
Honestly, I think RR should be more aggressive in their approach. Yes, they're winning, but we've seen how teams like PBKS fell apart last season. Jofra is right to be cautious. The 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a freak talent though - 12 sixes in 29 balls! RR management needs to protect him from burnout, not overexpose him. Good win, but tough matches ahead. GT will be a real test.
As a die-hard RR fan, I'm really impressed with Jofra's maturity in the interview. He knows momentum in IPL can change overnight. But honestly, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in this form - 97 off 29 balls! - and Archer leading the bowling attack, I'm dreaming of that second title. Just need to stay focused against GT. Come on, Rajasthan! 💛 #HallaBol
I've been following Archer since his early days in England and he's truly found his rhythm again with RR. That powerplay spell was vintage Jofra - raw pace and precision. The SRH top order didn't stand a chance. And honestly, the story of the match is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - a 15-year-old playing like a seasoned pro. IPL never fails to produce incredible young talent. Should be an exciting Qualifier 2!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.