Rajasthan Royals Shine in IPL Opener with Historic Win Over CSK

The Rajasthan Royals made a remarkable start to the IPL 2026 season with an eight-wicket victory over the Chennai Super Kings. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi shone with a record-breaking performance, while Aakash Chopra praised Yashasvi Jaiswal for his maturity and team spirit, likening him to cricket legend Virat Kohli. This match not only marked the Royals' largest victory margin but also highlighted the potential of young players in the league. Jaiswal, now the most experienced Indian batter in the lineup, aims to continue his impressive form and return to the Indian T20I team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 31, 2026, 13:17 IST

Royals' Dominance in IPL 2026 Opener

In a stunning display at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) triumphed over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by eight wickets during their inaugural match of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was the star of the show, but Aakash Chopra also highlighted the impressive performance of another player from the Riyan Parag-led team, drawing comparisons to the legendary Virat Kohli. The Royals achieved their largest victory margin in IPL history, finishing the match with 47 balls remaining, marking it as the second-largest defeat for the Super Kings in terms of balls left.

Sooryavanshi made headlines by scoring a remarkable 52 runs off just 17 balls, achieving the joint third-fastest fifty in IPL history in just 15 deliveries. His opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, contributed significantly with an unbeaten 38 runs from 36 balls. Chopra praised Jaiswal for his composure, noting that he prioritized the team's success over personal glory, much like Kohli does. He remarked, “Yashasvi Jaiswal displayed remarkable maturity. He allowed the other end to do the hitting while he focused on the bigger picture, setting aside his ego.”

Chopra emphasized the importance of team victories, stating that players who can remain unbeaten while chasing become superstars. Jaiswal, who has been with the Royals since the 2020 season, is now the most seasoned Indian batter in the squad following Sanju Samson's exit. The left-handed batsman aims to maintain his impressive form and secure a spot back in the Indian T20I team.