Jaipur, April 10 (UNI) Riding on a commanding batting performance, propelled by the dynamic duo of Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals set up a challenging target for the Gujarat Titans in an IPL match at Sawai Mansingh Stadium here on Wednesday.
Despite a shaky start at 43 for two in the powerplay, Rajasthan managed to post a formidable total of 196 for three.
Parag (76 off 48) showcased his remarkable form with a brilliant innings, scoring his third half-century in five innings. He formed a crucial partnership of 130 runs off just 78 balls with skipper Sanju Samson, who also continued his fine form in the tournament.
Parag's innings was marked by aggressive stroke play, including five sixes, three of which came against left-arm spinner Noor Ahmed. His fifty was brought up with a flat six over long-on off-pacer Mohit Sharma.
Meanwhile, Samson (68* off 38 7x4s 2x6s) played a supportive role initially, starting with consecutive boundaries off Umesh Yadav before allowing Parag to dominate proceedings. Samson reached his half-century with a boundary off a full toss from Mohit Sharma.
Gujarat's fielding was below par, with missed catches and poor ground fielding adding to their frustration. Gujarat captain Shubman Gill was visibly frustrated in several instances, including an umpiring decision.
Earlier in the innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal (24 off 19) showed promise with some elegant strokes before getting dismissed while attempting a scoop shot off Umesh Yadav. Jos Buttler 98 off 10), the other opener, fell to a catch at first slip while attempting an expansive drive off Rashid Khan in the sixth over. UNI BDN SSP