The Rajasthan Royals’ journey in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) ended with a sense of reflection and analysis, as Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara dissected the highs and lows of the team’s performance.
A Season of Swings
In a season characterized by dramatic fluctuations, Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara acknowledged the stark contrast between the Royals’ formidable start and their subsequent downturn in form. Sangakkara commented, “We started really well and then we lost a close game to SRH in Hyderabad and [in] Delhi also we put ourselves in winning positions.”
Navigating T20’s Unpredictability
Sangakkara attributed the unpredictability of T20 cricket to the team’s fluctuating fortunes. He emphasized, “Sometimes you have streaks, RCB lost almost every game at the start and then caught up. That’s how T20 goes.”
Absence of Key Players
Reflecting on the absence of key players like Jos Buttler, Sangakkara stressed the importance of adaptability and collective responsibility within the squad. He remarked, “We always say that the best ability is availability and unfortunately we lost Jos. He is a big loss without a doubt.”
Praise for Performers
Despite the challenges faced, Sangakkara praised the contributions of several players throughout the season. He singled out fast bowlers Avesh Khan and Sandeep Sharma for their exceptional performances, noting their pivotal roles in the team’s campaign. Sangakkara highlighted, “I think it was a great season for us.”
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Sangakkara expressed confidence in the team’s potential and highlighted the experiences gained during the season as valuable lessons for future endeavors. He commended the efforts of the players and support staff, expressing pride in the team’s achievements despite the ultimate disappointment of falling short in the playoffs. Sangakkara concluded, “I think looking back at the season it was wonderful to see Riyan [Parag] and Sanju the way they batted and the way they held this side together.”
As the Rajasthan Royals conclude their IPL journey for the season, Sangakkara’s reflections offer insights into the team’s journey and aspirations for the future.
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