Rajasthan Royals head into a must-win IPL 2026 clash against the Lucknow Super Giants in Jaipur with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. Historically, the month of May has been difficult for Rajasthan, and their record reflects that struggle. The Royals have managed only four wins in 19 IPL matches during this period, losing 14 games and repeatedly faltering during the business end of the tournament. Currently sixth on the points table with 12 points from 12 matches, the Rajasthan Royals still remain alive in the playoff race.
Two victories in their remaining league fixtures against LSG and Mumbai Indians could take them to 16 points, which may be enough for qualification depending on other results involving Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings. There is even a slim possibility of qualifying with 14 points if multiple results go in their favour.
However, Rajasthan’s recent form has become a major concern. The Royals come into this contest after suffering three consecutive defeats, including two painful losses against the Delhi Capitals. Even more worrying is their poor home record this season, having lost all three matches in Jaipur so far.
Several issues have contributed to Rajasthan’s sudden decline after an impressive first half of the season. Yashasvi Jaiswal has struggled for consistency in recent games, while the lower middle order has failed to provide impactful finishes. Their bowling attack has also leaked runs heavily during the powerplay, allowing opposition teams to dominate early.
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After winning five of their first seven matches, Rajasthan have managed just one victory in their last five outings and desperately need momentum before it becomes too late. Although Lucknow Super Giants are already out of playoff contention, they have shown signs of improvement recently. Much of that resurgence has been driven by Mitchell Marsh, who has produced sensational knocks including 111 off 56 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and 90 off 38 against CSK.
Josh Inglis has also impressed at the top of the order, while LSG’s bowling unit has contributed significantly to wins in two of their last three games. A high-scoring encounter is expected in Jaipur, where first-innings totals have crossed 220 in all three matches this season. Interestingly, Rajasthan Royals are yet to win at home this year, while chasing teams have enjoyed considerable success at the venue. Historically, RR hold a 5-2 head-to-head advantage over LSG overall, although Lucknow have won two of their three matches played in Jaipur.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Ravindra Jadeja is expected to return for Rajasthan Royals’ crucial IPL 2026 clash against the Lucknow Super Giants after missing the previous game against the Delhi Capitals due to a knee niggle. RR batting coach Vikram Rathour confirmed the all-rounder was rested as a precaution to manage the issue.
Jadeja’s return could be significant for Rajasthan, especially against Mitchell Marsh. The left-arm spinner has dismissed Marsh twice in six T20 innings, while restricting him to a strike rate of just 97.22.
Probable XII: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Donovan Ferreira, Dasun Shanaka, Shubham Dubey, Jofra Archer, Adam Milne, Brijesh Sharma, Yash Raj Punja
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Jofra Archer holds a strong record against Nicholas Pooran, dismissing the explosive batter three times in nine innings. There is still uncertainty around Mohsin Khan, who continues to recover from injury. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami also enjoys favourable match-ups against both Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel in T20 cricket.
Probable XII: Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Mukul Choudhary, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Shami, Mayank Yadav, Akash Maharaj Singh, Prince Yadav
