Rajasthan Royals are staring at a free fall—and Rahul Dravid has made it clear: there’s no time left to stumble.
Ahead of their do-or-die clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the Royals' head coach broke his usual calm demeanor to deliver a sharp reality check. “It’s now or never,” Dravid said, firmly putting the pressure back on his underperforming squad after their third straight loss.
The frustration is understandable. Rajasthan have slipped to eighth on the IPL table, squandering crucial points at the business end of the season. But what truly stings is how they’ve lost.
In their last two matches, the Royals needed just 9 runs in the final over—both times. And both times, they crumbled.
Against Lucknow Supergiants, the Royals froze. Despite having set batters at the crease, poor shot selection and nerves handed the match away. Just days later, a similar story unfolded against Delhi Capitals—another 9-run chase in the final over, another heartbreak. No finish, no calm, no composure.
These weren’t just defeats. They were reminders of a team unable to deliver when it matters most.
Now, with a resurgent RCB waiting in Bengaluru, the pressure couldn’t be higher. A loss here would all but end Rajasthan’s playoff hopes—and possibly lead to major changes within the camp.
Dravid’s message wasn’t just for his players. It was for fans, too. The Royals have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but without the ability to close out games, it means nothing.
For a side built on talent and promise, this might be their last chance to prove they’re more than just potential. The stakes are clear. The pressure is real.
And as Dravid said—it’s now or never.
