Rajasthan Royals (RR) endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing ninth in the points table. However, they will look to move past last season’s setbacks and come back stronger in IPL 2026. The franchise has slightly revamped its squad while continuing to back a promising young core, aiming to build a competitive unit capable of challenging for their second IPL title.
Here is RR’s strongest predicted XI for their first game of the season:
Top Order: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C)
RR’s opening duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi promises to be one of the most exciting combinations this season. Both players are aggressive by nature and have the ability to dominate bowlers right from the first ball. Jaiswal has been a consistent performer for the Royals over the past few seasons, providing solid starts at the top.
Suryavanshi, who impressed during his debut season in IPL 2025, will look to build on that momentum and continue his attacking approach, often maintaining a strike rate well above 200. Captain Riyan Parag is expected to bat at No. 3, where he will aim to stabilize the innings if needed or accelerate further after a strong start.
Middle Order: Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (WK)
In the middle order, Shimron Hetmyer will play a crucial role as the aggressor. The West Indian batter has been in good form in recent times and is capable of taking on both pace and spin during the middle overs.
His ability to clear the boundary with ease makes him a key asset. Alongside him, Dhruv Jurel will take on the wicketkeeping duties and provide stability. Jurel has shown composure under pressure and will be responsible for rotating strike and accelerating during the later stages of the innings.
Lower Order: Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka
The lower middle order features experienced all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Dasun Shanaka. Jadeja, who has returned to RR after being traded from CSK, brings immense experience and versatility. Apart from his left-arm spin, he can contribute valuable runs down the order.
Shanaka, who replaces the injured Sam Curran, adds depth with his power-hitting ability and medium pace. He is expected to play the finisher’s role and provide late impetus to the innings.
Bowler: Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne
RR are likely to field a strong and balanced bowling attack. Jofra Archer will spearhead the pace unit with his raw speed and wicket-taking ability, while Sandeep Sharma will focus on swinging the new ball and picking early breakthroughs in the powerplay.
Adam Milne adds further pace and experience, making it a potent three-pronged seam attack. In the spin department, Ravi Bishnoi will be key, using his variations and control to contain batters and pick wickets during the middle overs.
RR’s predicted playing XI:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne
Impact Player: Aman Rao Perala
