Sanju Samson’s return to the playing XI was good as Rajasthan Royals defeated Punjab Kings by 50 runs. The visiting side posted 205/4 in 20 overs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring 67 runs off 45 balls. The other top and middle-order batters played impactful innings against the Shreyas-led team. Jofra Archer broke Punjab’s back during the run chase, dismissing Priyansh Arya and Jofra Archer in a span of few deliveries.

It didn’t allow the host to break free. Nehal Wadhera amassed a 50-plus, but it was not enough to outclass RR. Archer returned to claim another scalp in the form of Arshdeep Singh. Sandeep Sharma dismissed two batters.

Sanju Samson was delighted with the effort of his players. “I thought we were a bit short in the powerplay overs, but credit to the batters for taking the score to 205. We have a young batting line-up, but the willow holders are experienced, considering their association with the national teams,” Sanju Samson said.

He lauded Archer and Sandeep Sharma for their impressive bowling. Jofra Archer and Sandeep Sharma are a deadly combo. Both are effective. I am glad that they are keeping the team in front. Jofra bowls fast while Sandy completes pressure overs. He is one of the best death-over specialists in India,” he added.

Samson also shed light on his conversation with the players when Nehal and Glenn Maxwell were in the middle. “I told them that we can’t take their battles lightly. We need to focus on line and length. We have found a rhythm, and it now becomes important to care for the players to avoid injuries as IPL is a long tournament,” he concluded.