IPL 2024 RR Preview: Check Rajasthan Royals players list, full squad, probable XI, matches, schedule

Sixteen years have elapsed since the Rajasthan Royals clinched the IPL title in its inaugural season. They got close in 2022 but they were bested by the Gujarat Titans at the final juncture. The Royals are now entering the 2024 season with an aura of optimism. Their team composition this year suggests a finely tuned balance that could turn the tide in their favour.

At the forefront of Rajasthan Royals' arsenal is their formidable top-order, comprising Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sanju Samson. This trio boasts versatility and adaptability, enabling the team to tailor their approach to the myriad conditions they might encounter. Buttler, Jaiswal and Samson's explosive batting, combined with their consistency, provides the Royals with a robust foundation.

The batting depth doesn't end there, as Shimron Hetmyer, known for his match-winning capabilities in previous seasons, is joined by newcomer Rovman Powell, for whom the Royals invested a substantial 7.4 Crore. The team's batting lineup is further bolstered by Dhruv Jurel, who is in the form of his life. Riyan Parag, who has shown his prowess in domestic cricket, and the addition of Vidharbha's Shubham Dubey enhance their options in the lower-middle order.

Rajasthan's bowling lineup is equally seasoned, with stalwarts R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Trent Boult set to lead the attack. Despite Prasidh Krishna's injury being a setback, the acquisition of Avesh Khan, alongside Sandeep Sharma and Kuldeep Sen, ensures depth and variety in their Indian bowling contingent.

Strengths
The Royals' strengths lie in their top 3 batters, whose performances have consistently set the stage for the team and the team will be hoping that the trip can shepherd the rest of the batting group during the 2024 campaign. Coupled with a lethal spin trio that includes Ashwin, Chahal, and the bench option of Adam Zampa, they possess a significant advantage on spin-friendly pitches.

Weaknesses
However, challenges remain, particularly in the lower-middle order where the performance can be unpredictable. Dhruv Jurel's emergence offers hope, Shimron Hetmyer has been a top match-winner but Riyan Parag's inconsistency raises concerns. Additionally, despite the availability of Avesh Khan and Sandeep Sharma, there's room for speculation regarding who will be their fourth and fifth bowling options during IPL 2024.

As the Rajasthan Royals gear up for the 2024 IPL season, their blend of experienced campaigners and young talent sets a promising stage. Still, it will be their ability to win the crucial moments, that will determine their fate in the quest for their second IPL title.

Probable XI
Jos Buttler
Yashasvi Jaiswal
Sanju Samson (c) (wk)
Rovman Powell
Shimron Hetmyer
Dhruv Jurel
Riyan Parag
R. Ashwin
Yuzvendra Chahal
Trent Boult
Avesh Khan

Rajasthan Royals schedule for 1st phase
March 24: Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants, Jaipur - 3:30 pm
March 28: Rajasthan Royals vs Delhi Capitals, Jaipur - 7:30 pm
April 1: Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai - 7:30 pm
April 6: Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore - 7:30 pm

Rajasthan Royals full squad for IPL 2024
Sanju Samson (C), Jos Buttler, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Rathore, Donovan Ferreira, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Rovman Powell, Shubham Dubey, Ravichandran Ashwin, Abid Mushtaq, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sandeep Sharma, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Sen, Adam Zampa, Nandre Burger, Avesh Khan.

Prasidh Krishna's replacement yet to be announced.