Riyan-Parag Tensions, Sangakkara Discontent: Rajasthan Royals’ Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread After Delhi Capitals Defeat

After suffering a defeat in a crucial match against Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals’ playoff spot is now in deep uncertainty. Although they have a chance if they win their last two matches, they will have to depend on the results of Hyderabad and Chennai. If Chennai wins the head-to-head encounter, it spells trouble for Rajasthan. If they end up with the same 16 points, the fate will be decided by the run rate. Chennai and Rajasthan have an equal run rate (before Monday’s match).
Unrest has begun in the Rajasthan camp right after last night’s defeat against Delhi. Captain Riyan is frustrated with the team’s performance. On the other hand, Coach Sangakkara is discontented with some of Riyan’s decisions. Accepting the team’s failure at the end of the match, Riyan said— “We were in a strong position until the 14th over. After the fall of three wickets in an over by Starc, the match slipped out of control. We also made many mistakes in fielding. We conceded runs in misfielding and overthrows. It is difficult to win the trophy with such a performance.”
Meanwhile, Sangakkara was displeased with handing over the ball to Ferrari in the 18th over of Delhi’s innings. During that over, Delhi scored 16 runs. From the dugout, Sangakkara had signaled to give the ball to another player when the ball was handed to Ferrari. Disobeying the coach’s instructions, the ball was handed to Ferrari. Though no reaction has been expressed, a rift has appeared in the relationship between the captain and the coach. Riyan, however, has claimed that his decision was correct.