Delhi Capitals fast bowler Mitchell Starc defended nine runs in the 20th over Rajasthan Royals chase. Photo: AP
“This could be their year,” Jadeja said on JioHotstar. “They have not even used all their resources yet. No one has fully peaked, and that’s a positive. The ceiling is still ahead. If they have come this far without individual brilliance, the only way is up. Sure, there is always risk, but they are looking like a more complete unit this year. Once you get into the knockouts, it is all about delivering on the day, but their consistency so far gives me hope that this could be their breakthrough season.”
The Delhi Capitals maintained their calm as the Rajasthan Royals tied the score (188) on Wednesday evening, courtesy of a calm and composed approach by KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs, who shared a crucial 63-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Jadeja was all praise for the duo.
“We always knew it would be Sandeep Sharma for Royals. KL brought such a calming presence. Even after missing the first ball, he was unfazed. Stubbs was waiting for that short one, and they timed everything just right. With only a few runs to defend, you cannot afford mistakes, and they did not make any,” observed Jadeja.
Mark Boucher, who was also on the panel, was baffled with the Rajasthan Royals’ strategy.
“(Shimron) Hetmyer and (Riyan) Parag did not make much of a difference. The biggest surprise was not seeing Yashasvi Jaiswal. Add a no-ball first up, then a run-out. It’s just pressure. These are seasoned pros, but they crumbled,” he said.