Anil Kumble Backs Rajasthan Royals as Underdogs in IPL 2026 Qualifier 2

Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has labeled the Rajasthan Royals as underdogs heading into their IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 match against the Gujarat Titans. Despite their outsider status, Kumble believes the Royals have a strong chance of victory, especially with young talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in top form. Sooryavanshi, the Orange Cap holder, has been a standout performer this season. Kumble also discussed GT's bowling strategy and the potential impact on the match. This clash will determine who faces the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2026, 11:32 IST

Kumble's Insights on Rajasthan Royals

Anil Kumble, the former captain of India, has expressed his belief that the Rajasthan Royals (RR) are entering the IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 as underdogs. He is optimistic about their chances against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in New Chandigarh this Friday. The match will determine who advances to the final to face the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), on Sunday.

Rajasthan's Recent Form

During a discussion on JioHotstar prior to the crucial match, Kumble acknowledged the challenge of predicting the outcome. However, he noted that Rajasthan's recent performances make them a formidable opponent, despite being perceived as outsiders. He highlighted the young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose impressive display against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has caught attention.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Potential

"Predicting this match is quite challenging. Rajasthan has performed well, yet they are still seen as underdogs. I am inclined to support them. If Vaibhav replicates his performance against SRH, it could give Rajasthan a significant edge," Kumble remarked. He praised Sooryavanshi for his outstanding season in IPL 2026, where he has emerged as the Orange Cap holder.

"Sooryavanshi's achievement is not a fluke; he has consistently excelled over the past two months. His ability to score runs, including being the highest six-hitter, is impressive. If he can navigate the Powerplay effectively, RR stands a good chance against GT, who have a solid strategy in place," Kumble added.

Gujarat Titans' Strategy Against Sooryavanshi

"GT's bowling attack features Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, each expected to bowl three overs. This could be a pivotal moment in the match. They have performed well in Ahmedabad, where conditions favor seam bowlers. Although they struggled in Dharamshala, they will aim to maintain consistent lengths with the new ball to secure an early wicket," Kumble concluded.

Sooryavanshi's Remarkable Season Stats

This season, Sooryavanshi has been in phenomenal form, accumulating 680 runs in 15 innings with an average of 45.33 and a striking rate of 242.85. His performance includes a century and four fifties, with a top score of 103. He has also hit 55 fours and 65 sixes from 280 balls faced.