Rajasthan Royals (RR) bowling coach Shane Bond did not hold back after his side’s crushing defeat to the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, admitting that the Royals have struggled badly to keep pace in a batting-dominated season. The defeat in Jaipur once again exposed Rajasthan’s bowling frailties, as Gujarat Titans piled on another massive score before sealing a comprehensive victory. It also marked RR’s seventh defeat in their last eight home matches dating back to last season, raising fresh concerns over their fading playoff hopes.

Speaking after the game, Shane Bond admitted the relentless IPL schedule has physically drained the squad and affected their sharpness in key moments. “It was a disappointing performance from us. This was a really important game considering where both teams are on the points table,” Bond said. “The stretch where we played games every three days definitely took a toll on the players. We were banged up physically and probably not as sharp as we needed to be.”

Gujarat Titans openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan once again dominated the Royals’ attack, putting together a massive opening stand that laid the foundation for another 220-plus total. Bond admitted Rajasthan failed to read the conditions properly and allowed the Titans to dictate the game from the start.

The former New Zealand fast bowler also pointed to RR’s inconsistent middle-order performances, especially from overseas finisher Shimron Hetmyer.

ALSO READ: ‘Box Office Player’: Ravichandran Ashwin Makes Massive Prediction On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

“Hettie would probably admit himself that he hasn’t produced the runs he wanted this season,” Shane Bond explained. “But honestly, it was not just one player. Across the board, we were not good enough. Chasing 230 was always going to be difficult, especially once Rashid Khan came into the attack.”

Bond believes modern T20 cricket has become increasingly challenging for bowlers, with batters constantly innovating and expanding their range of attacking shots.

“Batters are now playing scoops, reverse hits and upper cuts regularly. Their game keeps evolving, so bowlers also need to evolve with them,” Shane Bond said. “Young bowlers should look at this as an opportunity instead of fearing it. If you can develop your skills and succeed in these conditions, you can become a superstar.”

Despite Rajasthan’s poor home record, Shane Bond defended the Jaipur pitch and insisted the surface was not to blame for the team’s struggles.

WATCH – Sanju Samson Reveals Emotional MS Dhoni Story From CSK Dressing Room

“The wicket was actually very good. We simply didn’t execute our plans properly,” he added. “We’ve now conceded around 230 in three straight matches at home. Against Sunrisers Hyderabad, we even dropped chances that could have changed the game. Gujarat Titans were outstanding from ball one. Gill and Sudharsan batted beautifully and their bowlers were excellent throughout.”

With the playoff race tightening, the Rajasthan Royals now face a must-win situation heading into the final phase of IPL 2026.