Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals – Match 32, IPL 2025 Preview: Will DC Bounce Back or Will RR Reignite Their Campaign?
The 32nd match of the Indian Premier League 2025 promises fireworks as Delhi Capitals lock horns with the Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, on April 16. With the match scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST, both teams find themselves at a crucial juncture in the season. DC, after suffering their first loss of the campaign, are eager to get back on track, while RR are desperate for consistency as their batting unit continues to struggle.
Delhi Capitals – Ready to Bounce Back
DC’s journey in IPL 2025 has been strong so far, but their last match against Mumbai Indians ended in disappointment. Despite a stunning performance from Karun Nair, the team crumbled under pressure during the chase. Their defeat was not just about the opposition’s skill but also their own batting collapse and poor handling of the final overs.
However, it’s not all gloom for the Capitals. They’ve shown depth in their batting and flexibility in their bowling. While Jake Fraser-McGurk has not been impressive in the PowerPlay with just 46 runs and a strike rate of 100, others like KL Rahul, Karun Nair, and Tristan Stubbs have carried the middle-order load at different times. Their spin-hitting strike rate is exceptional (159.38), but the average against spin (24.47) remains a concern.
The Kotla pitch has shown some assistance to spinners, and DC will be cautious, especially after seeing how Mumbai Indians exploited the conditions with the second new ball. But they can take confidence from the form of their bowling duo – Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. Kuldeep’s economy of 5.6 is the best in the league, and Axar’s matchup against key RR batters like Sanju Samson and Nitish Rana gives DC an edge.
Rajasthan Royals – Searching for Stability
The Royals have had a patchy campaign so far. Their batting lineup, filled with talent, hasn’t lived up to expectations. Players like Riyan Parag, Sanju Samson, and Shimron Hetmyer have lacked consistency. Even Yashasvi Jaiswal, who showed promise early on, has mixed performances with scores of 29, 67, and 75 alongside three single-digit dismissals.
This match becomes crucial for RR to find their rhythm. With conditions favoring high scores, this could be their opportunity to rebuild confidence. But they will have to do it against one of the most disciplined bowling units in the league.
In their bowling department, Sandeep Sharma has a strong record against Delhi – 20 wickets in 18 matches and an economy of 7.29. His dot-ball percentage is nearly 43%, making him a key asset for early breakthroughs. Pair him with overseas stars like Jofra Archer, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Theekshana, and RR has the potential to stifle even the best batting lineups.
Pitch and Conditions – Expect a Run Fest
The Arun Jaitley Stadium has become a heaven for batters. With short square boundaries, a fast outfield, and a flat surface, fans can expect a high-scoring encounter. Dew has already played a part in previous matches, and the team winning the toss will likely opt to chase.
In their first home game, Delhi found it tough to defend a big total, which might push both sides to prefer bowling first.
Head-to-Head – A Neck-and-Neck Battle
The head-to-head record between the two teams is incredibly close. Out of 29 matches, Rajasthan Royals lead 15-14, holding a slight edge. However, in Delhi’s home ground at Kotla, DC dominates with six wins out of nine, suggesting a comfort level at this venue.
Key Player Matchups to Watch
Mukesh Kumar vs Yashasvi Jaiswal – Mukesh has dismissed Jaiswal twice in IPL and conceded only seven runs in nine balls.
Axar Patel vs Samson & Rana – Axar has dismissed both batters twice and keeps them in check with his left-arm spin.
Sandeep Sharma vs Delhi – A proven performer with a history of success, especially in the PowerPlay.
Probable Playing XI
Delhi Capitals: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Karun Nair, Abishek Porel, KL Rahul (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel (c), Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Mukesh Kumar
Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Nitish Rana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande
Did You Know?
KL Rahul averages nearly 51 against RR in 16 matches, with a strike rate of 132.52 and a best of 95.
Nitish Rana, despite being from Delhi, averages only 18.9 in 10 innings at this venue.
RR has conceded the most extras (74) so far in IPL 2025 – a worrying trend they must address.
Prediction – Who Has the Edge?
Delhi’s familiarity with home conditions and a more balanced squad gives them a slight advantage. But RR’s bowling, combined with the firepower they possess in the top-order, can flip the game in a few overs. If RR’s batters finally click and reduce their extras, we could be in for a close contest.
This match is not just about points. It’s about momentum. For DC, it’s the chance to reclaim their top form. For RR, it’s about survival and reviving a season slipping away.
0 Comments
Thanks for your comment! Stay connected for more cricket updates.