IPL 2026: Jofra Archer Highlights Rajasthan Royals' Squad Depth
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Guwahati, March 30 (NationPress) Fast bowler Jofra Archer from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) expressed confidence that the team has assembled a squad with significant depth, enhancing their chances of making it to the playoffs this season. He emphasized his commitment to maintain fitness and participate throughout IPL 2026.
After a disappointing ninth-place finish last year, the IPL 2008 champions have appointed Riyan Parag as the new captain, following the trade of Sanju Samson to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), which brought Ravindra Jadeja into the mix. The franchise also welcomed back Kumar Sangakkara as head coach, succeeding Rahul Dravid.
“This team boasts a lot of depth this year. We managed to fill the remaining overseas slots just before the previous season concluded, and our draft selections were commendable. I'm genuinely proud of the team we've constructed, and I see no reason why we shouldn't aim for at least the playoffs this year,” Archer stated in a pre-match discussion with broadcasters.
Commenting on his fitness, Archer, who claimed 11 wickets in 12 matches last season before a thumb injury cut his campaign short, noted, “I’ve been keeping a close watch on my fitness. I hope to remain healthy for the duration of the season as I aspire to play every game. It’s a challenging endeavor. As (Tabraiz) Shamsi tweeted earlier, it’s essential to keep taking wickets.”
“When you bowl your spell aiming to restrict runs, it may not suffice, given that every team has exceptional batters. Additionally, with the new impact rule in effect, there's an extra player to contend with. Therefore, the focus must be on taking wickets consistently. I’m looking forward to bowling to Samson,” he added.