As the first Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) have continuously displayed aggressive batting tactics, especially in the powerplay overs. Their strategy has set the tone for their innings with multiple high-scoring beginnings. Even in a difficult run in IPL 2025, the Rajasthan Royals lead the charts when it comes to teams getting off to explosive starts this season. This article explores RR’s most incredible powerplay totals, emphasising significant plays and the individuals who enabled them.
70/0 vs Punjab Kings – IPL 2010
Rajasthan Royals got off to a blazing start against Punjab Kings in IPL 2010, reaching 70/0 at the end of the powerplay. The openers showed great intent, finding boundaries regularly and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Their unbeaten partnership provided the perfect platform for the middle order to build on, helping RR post a strong total. This powerplay remains one of the team’s most impactful starts in IPL history.
73/1 vs Deccan Chargers – IPL 2008
In the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League, the Rajasthan Royals showcased their aggressive intent early on with a blistering start against the Deccan Chargers. Scoring 73/1 in the powerplay, they set a dominant tone for the rest of the match. This explosive opening not only put pressure on the opposition but also reflected the fearless brand of cricket that became the hallmark of RR’s title-winning campaign that year.
81/1 vs Chennai Super Kings – IPL 2021
Rajasthan Royals registered their highest-ever powerplay score of 81/1 against Chennai Super Kings during the 2021 IPL season. The opening pair of Evin Lewis and Yashasvi Jaiswal came out all guns blazing, taking full advantage of the fielding restrictions. Jaiswal, in particular, was in sublime form, smashing a quickfire 50 off just 19 balls — one of the fastest half-centuries of the season. Their aggressive start laid a strong foundation for the Royals in a high-scoring match.
85/1 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL 2023
In their 2023 season opener, RR achieved their 2nd highest-ever powerplay score of 85/1 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Jos Buttler led the charge with a blistering 54 off 22 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Yashasvi Jaiswal provided solid support, contributing 30 runs. This aggressive start laid the foundation for a commanding total and showcased RR’s top-order prowess.
87/0 vs Gujarat Titans – IPL 2025
In this IPL, RR achieved their highest-ever powerplay score of 87/0 against Gujarat Titans. Vaibhav struck the ball with perfection and was looking to hit every ball sent his way, and in the process notched up his maiden half-century in just 17 balls, the fastest by any player this season. Yashasvi Jaiswal provided solid support. This aggressive start showcased RR’s top-order prowess.
While the Royals have hit more sixes than any team in the powerplay overs this season, no batter has cleared the ropes more frequently than Jaiswal in the first six overs. As a team, RR has hit 37 sixes in the IPL powerplay this campaign to date – that’s eight better than Kolkata Knight Riders, who are next on the list with 29.
Notable Powerplay Performances
Jos Buttler’s Explosive Starts
Jos Buttler has consistently been a key figure in the Rajasthan Royals’ aggressive powerplay strategies. His ability to dominate from the outset has made him a game-changer, especially during crucial early overs. A perfect example of his explosive approach came in 2023 when he scored an impressive 54 off just 22 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This knock showcased Buttler’s skill in rapidly shifting gears, setting the tone for a high-scoring innings and putting pressure on the opposition right from the start.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Consistency
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s consistency has been a key asset for the Rajasthan Royals (RR), particularly in providing strong starts. His partnerships with Jos Buttler and, more recently,y with Vaibhav have led to impressive powerplay scores, establishing him as a reliable opening batter. His steady performances are becoming increasingly important for the team, highlighting his growing stature in RR’s lineup.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s bold play
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s bold approach during the powerplay overs has made a significant impact, signalling the rise of a potential future star in Indian cricket. As an opener, his blend of technical precision and fearless play sets him apart. With every match, he showcases his potential, and both fans and analysts are eagerly watching his growth in the game. His audacity at the crease, combined with his skill, suggests that he will be a player to watch in the coming years.
Rajasthan Royals’ Top Powerplay Scores
| Score | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 87/0 | Gujarat Titans | 2025 |
| 85/1 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 2023 |
| 81/1 | Chennai Super Kings | 2021 |
| 73/1 | Deccan Chargers | 2008 |
| 70/0 | Punjab Kings | 2010 |
During the powerplay overs, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) have consistently showcased an aggressive batting strategy. They often set a strong tone early in their innings, with explosive players like Jos Buttler (now part of the Gujarat Titans), Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi leading the charge. This approach has become a hallmark of their batting style, aiming to put pressure on the opposition from the outset. As RR continues to refine their strategy, fans can expect more thrilling and fast-paced starts in their upcoming matches, making the powerplay a key moment to watch.
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