What a game, guys! Still can’t stop thinking about it. After one heartbreak after another last season, being 2/2 feels amazing. That said, let’s not get carried away. It’s a long season, and we’ve seen before how things can slip. Staying grounded is key.

Here are my thoughts from yesterday’s match:

YBJ & Boss Baby: Once again, they delivered. 69 in the powerplay with clean, fearless hitting set the perfect platform. Not jinxing it, but really hoping they carry this form throughout the season.

Dhruv Jurel (The Game Stabilizer): Cometh the moment, cometh the man. With wickets falling at regular intervals, Jurel kept the momentum intact and ensured we reached a competitive total. He also deserves credit for advising Riyan on bowling Archer in the 19th and Deshpande in the 20th. Top awareness.

Riyan Parag (Captain’s Gambit): Got off the mark with a cracking shot but couldn’t convert it into a big innings. With the ball, he had a few loose deliveries but did manage to break a crucial partnership. Captaincy looked promising, though field placements can improve with time. Would love to see more contribution with the bat.

Hetmyer (Short but Impactful): Played a handy cameo. Unlucky with that Siraj catch. He could have added more. Looked in good touch in the brief stay and will be crucial for us going forward.

Donovan Ferreira (Needs to Step Up): With the hype around him, expected more. He will often face similar pressure situations, so performances need to come soon. Give him 5 to 6 games, but if it doesn’t click, Shanaka could be a solid replacement.

Jadeja (Below Par for His Standards): Apart from that sharp throw to run out Shahrukh, it wasn’t his best outing. 7 off 7 and 25 in 2 overs. He is far better than this and will bounce back, especially after a strong first game.

Ravi Bishnoi (The Game Changer): Our local lad turned the match. Those 4 wickets completely shifted momentum. Without him, the game could have ended much earlier. Purple Cap suits him. Hope it stays.

Jofra Archer (Redemption): Worst possible start with 5 wides on the first ball, but what a comeback. That 19th over was pure class. Tight, composed, and match defining.

Nandre Burger (Silent Performer): Economical and picked up the key wicket of Buttler when he looked dangerous. Thought he might bowl the last over, but no complaints. He is in great rhythm.

Sandeep Sharma (Time to Move On?): Has been a loyal performer, but it might be time to look at other options. As a death specialist, getting taken apart by Rabada and Rashid is not ideal. Brijesh Sharma or Sushant Mishra could be worth trying.

Tushar Deshpande (Ice in the Veins) : Man of the moment. That final over reminded me of Kartik Tyagi vs PBKS. Absolute nerves of steel. If he builds on this, we might have a reliable death bowler. Something he has already shown with CSK.

That’s my take. Would love to hear yours as well.

Next up is MI. A big one. Let’s see how it unfolds.

Until then, Halla Bol! 💗🔥

My take on RR’s win and key performances