Archer struggles as RR bowlers fade away in Jaipur 2026

Rajasthan Royals' bowling unit has conceded over 200 runs in four straight games, winning just once.

Guwahati joy, Jaipur jitters Rajasthan Royals (RR) opened their campaign with three consecutive wins in Guwahati but then lost all three matches played in Jaipur. Their form away from their traditional home ground in the northwest shifted dramatically when they moved to the northeast. Deep Dasgupta attributed the poor run to lack of good cricket, while former pacer Mitchell McClenaghan pointed to the absence of assistance from the Jaipur pitches for Jofra Archer, their key wicket-taking bowler. ## Archer’s radar off target Jofra Archer had been in fine wicket-taking form from April 7 to May 1, picking up at least one wicket in eight games, including two in the first match in Jaipur. However, since then, he has managed just one wicket in two games, conceding 46 runs each time. McClenaghan explained that the pitches in Jaipur do not offer the same lift and bounce as their previous home ground, making it harder for Archer to generate swing or lateral movement. ## RR’s bowling struggles exposed RR’s bowling coach Shane Bond expressed frustration after the team’s fourth straight game where they conceded over 200 runs, winning only one of those matches. Bond emphasized that the bowlers need to improve their decision-making and execution, noting that inconsistency has plagued their performances throughout the tournament. He called for bowlers to adapt, using different angles, lengths, and variations to counter aggressive batting. ## Archer’s costly over sets tone Archer’s first over against Gujarat Titans (GT) was a disaster, costing RR 18 runs. The over dragged on with multiple wides and a no-ball, taking 11 balls to complete. McClenaghan joked about the endurance required to watch it, adding that Archer was simply not on target. He suggested that Archer might have lost rhythm after an eight-day break before the match. ## Middle order woes continue Dasgupta highlighted that RR’s batting has been top-heavy, with the middle order struggling again this season. Dhruv Jurel has had an inconsistent run, contributing to the team’s poor performances. The high-scoring nature of Jaipur adds to the challenge, as bowlers struggle to contain the flow of runs. Bond stressed the need for bowlers to innovate and develop new skills to stay ahead of evolving batting techniques. ## Playoff hopes hanging by thread The string of losses has pushed RR from the top of the table to fifth place with three league matches remaining. While playoff qualification is still possible, the lack of wins is a growing concern. The team risks repeating their disappointing finish from 2025 if they do not turn their fortunes around soon. Bond’s call for bowlers to step up reflects the urgency of the situation.