New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar asserts that the Rajasthan Royals (RR) are set to enter the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a significantly more balanced team compared to last year, mainly due to enhancements in their bowling lineup and a fortified middle order.

Bangar emphasized that despite notable changes in player personnel, the overall framework of the team seems more robust than in the previous season. He pointed out that the Royals’ fast-bowling capabilities and spin options have been enhanced, providing them with increased depth and versatility.

Additionally, he underscored the significance of the initial matches, particularly for the new captain Riyan Parag, who is anticipated to receive enthusiastic backing from local supporters when the team competes in Guwahati.

"This will be a promising beginning for Riyan Parag, playing three home matches. As a local from Guwahati, this marks his debut as a full-time captain, and he will surely aim to excel in front of his home audience. However, the Rajasthan Royals face challenges; they've parted ways with Buttler and are also missing Sanju Samson," Bangar commented on JioStar.

The Royals will commence this season without some prominent players, including the former captain Samson and the English star Jos Buttler. Consequently, emerging talents and key middle-order players like Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel will bear significant responsibility in the batting order.

Bangar is optimistic that the recent acquisitions of seasoned spin bowlers such as Ravi Bishnoi and Ravindra Jadeja could substantially enhance the team's bowling strength, while their pace attack appears to be well-established ahead of the tournament.

“The young batsmen on the squad must step up. They have shown considerable improvement since last year, particularly in their bowling, especially with the new spin additions. The fast-bowling department is also in good shape. Although finishing the innings might pose some concerns, they have the option to include Donovan Ferreira. Overall, the middle order seems solid with Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel. The Rajasthan Royals have undoubtedly progressed since last year,” he added.

Moreover, the former all-rounder shared insights on the Delhi Capitals (DC), suggesting that their bowling lineup could excel depending on the match conditions. With a pace leader like Mitchell Starc and spin options such as Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, Bangar believes DC has the diversity needed to adapt during the tournament.

"I think the pitch in Lucknow will be favorable for DC's bowlers. Their strong pace attack, led by Mitchell Starc, could be a significant asset. When they play in Delhi, their spin department will shine, featuring players like Axar Patel, Vipraj, and Kuldeep Yadav. Given his limited opportunities in T20s recently, Kuldeep will be eager to make a mark," he stated.

He also pointed out the strength of their batting lineup, highlighting key players like KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, and David Miller as a formidable core.

“In terms of batting, they have excellent options, with the combination of Tristan Stubbs and David Miller in the middle order, and KL Rahul at the top. This team appears very strong, boasting quality all-rounders, proficient spinners, and outstanding fast bowlers. They will be looking to start well in Lucknow and build from there,” Bangar noted.