As the IPL 2025 unfolds, Rajasthan Royals (RR) find themselves facing an uphill battle, but they’re not entirely out of the playoffs yet. With 14 points unlikely to suffice, bowling coach Shane Bond encourages the team to utilise the remaining five matches to set a strong foundation for next season. “We’re probably out of the tournament, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a lot to play for,” Bond asserted. He emphasised the importance of finishing the season strongly and providing players a chance to secure their spots for the next season.
The Royals are currently grappling with a five-game losing streak, highlighted by several tight chases where victory slipped through their fingers. Bond addressed this directly, dismissing claims of “toothless” bowling, apart from star player Jofra Archer. “Toothless might be a bit harsh,” Bond noted. He pointed out that they should have clinched their recent close matches, indicating that they’re certainly not devoid of skill or effort. “We’ve played pretty well over the last three games; we just haven’t won a couple of key moments,” he added, acknowledging their mid-table aspirations.
Acknowledging the opposition’s upper hand during these critical moments, Bond stated, “That’s what hurts.” He commended other teams for capitalising on crucial situations while expressing the pain of nearly securing wins. Reflecting on their auction strategy, Bond differed from Chennai Super Kings’ coach Stephen Fleming, who attributed their own struggles to auction decisions. Instead, Bond viewed RR’s challenges as missed opportunities rather than poor planning.
Bond shared perspective on the current auction cycle, noting, “We made a final, made the playoffs, and were in contention all the time.” He acknowledged room for growth, adding, “Every team does that,” referring to squad assessments and strategic tweaks post-season. As they head into upcoming games, the Royals aim not just to redeem their standing but also to cultivate a promising outlook for the future.
