Rajasthan Royals is one of the most iconic franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Known for their shrewd selection of players and unorthodox approach to the game, the Royals have consistently punched above their weight in the competition. Over the years, they have produced some of the most talented players in the tournament, who have not only excelled for the franchise but have also gone on to represent their countries at the international level. In this article, we will take a look at the 5 best all-time Rajasthan Royals players.
1.Shane Watson:
Shane Watson is arguably the greatest player to have ever represented Rajasthan Royals. He was an integral part of the team that won the inaugural IPL in 2008, and was also named the Player of the Tournament in 2008 and 2013. Watson was a dynamic all-rounder who could bat anywhere in the order and also bowl at a brisk pace. In 78 matches for the Royals, he scored 2372 runs and took 67 wickets.
2. Yusuf Pathan:
Yusuf Pathan was another key member of the Rajasthan Royals team that won the IPL in 2008. He was a powerful middle-order batsman who could take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs. Pathan was also a handy off-spinner, and his contributions with both bat and ball were crucial to the Royals’ success. In 66 matches for the franchise, he scored 1544 runs and took 42 wickets.
3.Ajinkya Rahane:
Ajinkya Rahane is one of the most consistent batsmen to have played for Rajasthan Royals. He was a mainstay of the team for many years, and his ability to anchor the innings and score runs at a brisk pace made him a valuable asset. Rahane also captained the Royals in the 2018 season. In 100 matches for the franchise, he scored 2810 runs at an average of 34.26.
4. Sanju Samson:
Sanju Samson is a young wicketkeeper-batsman who has made a big impact for Rajasthan Royals in recent years. He is known for his clean hitting and ability to score runs quickly, and has already established himself as one of the best batsmen in the IPL. Samson was appointed as the captain of the Royals for the 2021 season, and his performances with the bat will be crucial to the team’s success. In 94 matches for the franchise, he has scored 2584 runs at an average of 27.64.
5.Shane Warne:
Shane Warne is one of the greatest spin bowlers of all time, and his stint with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL was nothing short of magical. Warne was appointed as the captain of the team in the inaugural season, and he led from the front with his guile and cunning. His ability to outsmart the opposition and pick up wickets at crucial times was instrumental in the team’s success. In 55 matches for the franchise, he took 57 wickets at an economy rate of 7.27.
Over the years, Rajasthan Royals have produced some of the most talented cricketers in the IPL. From Shane Watson to Sanju Samson, these players have left an indelible mark on the franchise and the tournament as a whole. While there have been many other great players who have represented the Royals, these five players stand out for their exceptional performances and contribution to the team’s success.