IPL 2025: Sanju Samson admits RCB won the game in Powerplay after nine-wicket loss

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson admitted Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the game in the Powerplay overs after suffering a nine-wicket loss at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday. RR posted 173 runs on the board after they were put into bat by Rajat Patidar.

RCB got off to a flying start with Phil Salt playing aggressively as the visitors scored 65 runs in the first six overs without losing any wickets. Salt scored a quickfire knock of 65 runs off just 33 balls with the help of five fours and six sixes. 

England batter played with an aggressive approach and batted at the top of his game to deliver the goods for RCB. Furthermore, Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 62 and became the first Asian batter to score 100 fifties in T20s.

“Absolutely (asked if they felt 170 was a handy score). I think after losing the toss on that kind of a slowish wicket, batting first under the sun for the first 10 overs is tough in day games. We knew they would come hard at us and I think they won the game in the powerplay,” Samson said in the post-match presentation.

Meanwhile, one of RR’s better fielders – Riyan Parag – fluffed Virat Kohli’s catch when the veteran was on only seven, and the mistake proved costly for the inaugural champions.

“Catches win matches. They also dropped our catches and we also dropped their catches (smiles). No doubt we have to improve. Credit to RCB,” Samson said.

Samson believes the ball came better onto the bat in the second innings and thus made it easier for RCB.

“Ball did come on better in the second innings. They were really good. We have been having some really good chats about improving and coming back strong. We have to leave the thoughts behind and come back positive for the next game,” he added.

Rajasthan Royals will next take on Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi on Wednesday.