Kagiso Rabada's IPL Struggles: A Closer Look at His Declining Performance

Kagiso Rabada's Recent Challenges in IPL

Kagiso Rabada's difficulties in the Indian Premier League have become increasingly apparent, particularly as the Gujarat Titans bowler has struggled to maintain consistent performances on flat pitches. His latest match against the Punjab Kings underscored these issues, where he allowed 34 runs at an alarming economy rate of 11.33, securing only one wicket.

Since the start of 2024, Rabada has often been selected based on his past reputation rather than his current form. His statistics reveal a concerning trend: he has taken 14 wickets at an average of 40.57, with an economy rate of 9.62. Notably, he has given up more than 10 runs per over in over half of his innings during this timeframe.

Insights from Dale Steyn on Rabada's Performance

Dale Steyn, a former fast bowler from South Africa, shared his insights on ESPNcricinfo, linking Rabada's downturn to a broader change in South Africa's bowling tactics. The team's shift towards back-of-a-length deliveries has inadvertently diminished Rabada's effectiveness with yorkers. Steyn pointed out that Rabada once excelled at delivering lethal yorkers but has recently struggled, often resulting in low full-tosses or half-volleys that are easily scored off on flat surfaces.

Decline in Yorker Effectiveness

Supporting Steyn's claims, data shows that since IPL 2024, Rabada has only attempted yorkers 9.51% of the time, successfully landing them just 25.71% of the time. When he does manage to execute a yorker, it averages 4.50 runs per over, but missed attempts have leaked 9.60 runs per over. Instead, he has increasingly relied on shorter deliveries, with 38.25% of his balls bowled back-of-a-length or short, conceding an average of 8.84 runs per over.

This issue persisted during the T20 World Cup 2026, where Rabada managed to hit only 33.33% of his yorkers. His fuller deliveries, often poorly executed, were punished at a rate of 13.05 runs per over. Analysts suggest that the tactical changes made by South Africa years ago have disrupted Rabada's muscle memory, preventing him from consistently delivering the yorker that once defined his success.

Predictability Due to Shorter Lengths

In the IPL, bowling shorter lengths can be effective, but it requires a mix of variations. Rabada's heavy reliance on a single length has made him predictable, diminishing his threat even with his pace. Without the yorker as a strategic weapon, he has become easier for batsmen to target, especially on batting-friendly pitches.

The contrast with his performance in 2020 is striking. During that season, Rabada's accuracy with yorkers and his variations made him one of the league's most formidable bowlers. However, his inability to regain that rhythm since then has left him struggling to justify his place in the team.