Rajasthan Royals produced a late fireworks show to post a commanding 225 for 6 in 20 overs against Delhi Capitals in Match 43 of IPL 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Friday.
Batting first after losing early wickets to Mitchell Starc and others, RR recovered through a measured 89-run stand between captain Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel. The middle order steadied the ship before the death overs belonged entirely to Donovan Ferreira.
The South African all-rounder, walking in at No. 6, unleashed carnage in just 14 balls, remaining unbeaten on 47 with two fours and six sixes at a blistering strike rate of 335.71. His onslaught, particularly against the death bowlers, lifted RR from a competitive 170-odd to a match-winning total. Jofra Archer chipped
in with a quick 1 not out as the hosts finished strongly.
IPL 2026: Donovan Ferreira creates Record
His six maximums equal the joint-most by any Rajasthan Royals batter coming in at No. 6 or lower in IPL history - a record he now shares with Yusuf Pathan's unforgettable knock against the same opposition in 2009. Pathan had smashed 62 not out off 30 balls (3 fours, 6 sixes) at Centurion, guiding RR to a famous chase and earning Player of the Match honours.
The 27-year-old Ferreira, who returned to RR ahead of this season via a trade from Delhi Capitals, has quickly become a finisher of note. His 14-ball blitz not only powered the Royals past 220 but also underscored the depth in their lower order. With the pitch offering good bounce and the shorter boundaries on one side, Ferreira picked his spots perfectly, clearing the ropes with effortless power.
