IPL 2026: SWOT analysis of Rajasthan Royals - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats

Rajasthan Royals endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing ninth on the points table with just eight points from 14 matches. They avoided the wooden spoon only due to a superior net run rate compared to Chennai Super Kings. With an eye on rebuilding, RR entered the IPL 2026 auction with INR 16.05 crore in their purse and nine vacant slots, including just one overseas position.

Ahead of the auction, the 2008 champions made bold moves by trading in experienced all-rounders Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja, along with wicketkeeper-batter Donovan Ferreira. At the auction, Rajasthan Royals’ biggest investment was in Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was picked up for INR 7.2 crore after being overlooked by several franchises.

Their lone overseas vacancy was filled by New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne. RR also added several Indian domestic players, including Sushant Mishra, Yash Raj Punja, Vignesh Puthur, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao, Brijesh Sharma, and Kuldeep Sen, signalling a clear focus on youth and long-term planning.

Strengths

Rajasthan Royals possess one of the most fearless and aggressive young batting cores in the league. Their approach is built on intent, regardless of the quality of opposition bowling. The opening combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi promises explosive starts. In the middle order, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel provide stability mixed with attacking flair, while Lhuan-Dre Pretorius adds power-hitting depth. This group thrives on positive cricket and has the ability to seize momentum early, which remains RR’s biggest strength heading into IPL 2026.

Weaknesses

RR’s bowling attack remains a major concern, particularly when it comes to controlling the flow of runs. While they have big names like Jofra Archer and experienced campaigners such as Sandeep Sharma, consistency has been an issue. Youngsters like Kwena Maphaka, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Kuldeep Sen, and Nandre Burger are talented but untested at the highest level. Although the additions of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran add balance, their recent IPL form has been inconsistent. Moreover, the uncertainty around leadership, with multiple potential captaincy candidates, could impact team stability early in the season.

Opportunities

With a refreshed squad built around youth, RR have an opportunity to redefine their identity and build towards sustained success. A fearless approach combined with long-term vision could help them push for a playoff berth or even mount a title challenge. This season offers a chance to invest in the future while remaining competitive.

Threats

The same youthful core could also pose risks. Inexperienced players such as Suryavanshi, Pretorius, Maphaka, Kuldeep Sen, and Vignesh Puthur may struggle under pressure situations. If confidence dips or early results go against them, it could derail Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2026 campaign.

Rajasthan Royals squad for IPL 2026:

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Ravindra Jadeja (traded in), Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma, Nandre Burger, Sam Curran (traded in), Adam Milne, Kwena Maphaka, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira (traded in), Ravi Singh, Shubham Dubey, Kuldeep Sen, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Vignesh Puthur, Sushant Mishra, Yash Raj Punja, Brijesh Sharma, Aman Rao