Riyan Parag says ‘Jaipur pitch is different’ as Royals prepare for home return

The Rajasthan Royals are back at their fortress in Jaipur. But ahead of their first IPL 2025 home game at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, RR batter Riyan Parag has issued a subtle warning. The right-hander believes the Jaipur surface is a tricky one for batters and contrasts sharply with the flat tracks seen across the tournament so far.

Parag’s honest assessment of Jaipur pitch

Speaking before the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Parag underlined the importance of adapting to slower, low-bounce pitches in Jaipur. “The wicket’s a little different at home,” Parag told the host broadcaster. “We’ve been seeing 240-260 scores where the wickets are pretty flat and the bounce is consistent. Here, the bounce is lower. You have to work for your runs.”

Parag explained that the scoring pattern in Jaipur demands a mix of intent and patience. “You’ve got to run a lot of twos, hit boundaries smartly, and once you get set, the big shots will come,” he added. “We’ve been practicing hard and know the conditions well.”

Royals return to their fortress

This is the first game Rajasthan Royals are playing at their actual home venue this season. Rajasthan played their last three games at Guhwati. The Royals have had a bumpy start in IPL 2025, with just two wins in their first five games. They currently sit seventh on the points table.

RCB win toss, opt to bowl

Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and chose to bowl first. Interestingly, RCB have been unbeaten in away matches this season but are winless at home. They are placed fifth in the standings.

Hasaranga replaces Farooqi

RR made one major change ahead of the match. Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga came into the XI, replacing Fazalhaq Farooqi. Hasaranga, facing his former franchise, could prove vital on a surface that may assist turn and bounce.

As Jaipur braces for its first IPL 2025 clash, all eyes are on how both teams adapt to the unique conditions—and whether Parag’s words will prove prophetic.

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