Rajasthan Royals wrapped up their dismal IPL 2025 campaign with a solid six-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings. The spotlight was firmly on 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who crafted a mature 57-run innings to steer his team comfortably home in a game that ultimately didn’t affect standings much.
The Royals’ season had been a struggle from the get-go. But on Tuesday, at least, there was a spark — a young player showing that the future might still hold some hope.
Suryavanshi Shines Bright as Royals Chase Smooth Target
Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been the rare positive note for Rajasthan Royals this year. The teenager’s fearless 33-ball 57 proved he’s no ordinary youngster. You don’t often see someone barely in their teens taking on experienced bowlers like Ravindra Jadeja and coming out on top twice with towering sixes.
Yashasvi Jaiswal had already laid a solid foundation with a fiery 36, smashing 18 runs in Khaleed Ahmed’s second over. That early momentum set the tone for the chase.
Suryavanshi began cautiously, but it was clear he was picking his moments perfectly. Every loose ball was punished. Jadeja, known for his all-round skills, looked helpless against the teenager’s aggression.
The innings wasn’t just about brute force either. Suryavanshi’s timing and shot selection suggested maturity well beyond his years. When he reached his fifty off Noor Ahmad’s spinner with a fourth six, you could feel the momentum shift decisively in Royals’ favor.
Captain Sanju Samson, who added 41 runs, played a steady role alongside the youngster. Their partnership of 98 runs for the second wicket was the highlight. Samson himself seemed content playing second fiddle, allowing the prodigy to take center stage.
Royals Avoid Last Place, But Inconsistencies Remain
This victory was only Rajasthan Royals’ fourth win all season, and it might just save them from finishing dead last. The season overall, however, has been one to forget.
Even after Samson’s dismissal, when the score was precarious with Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, and others back in the pavilion, the Royals nearly slipped again. The equation was tight — 30 runs needed from 26 balls — and the nerves kicked in.
Enter Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer. Jurel’s unbeaten 31 and Hetmyer’s 12 runs ensured the team crossed the finish line without further drama. Their calm presence helped close out the match in 17.1 overs, well before the allotted 20.
While this win gave some joy, it also highlighted the Royals’ season-long issue: inconsistent middle and lower order. Time and again, the team has struggled to maintain momentum once the top batsmen fall.
Chennai Super Kings Fall Short Despite Solid Batting Effort
Chennai Super Kings put up a respectable total of 187 for 8 in their 20 overs. Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis top-scored with 43 and 42 runs, respectively. Their performances were bright spots in an otherwise middling season for CSK.
But the Royals’ bowling attack, led by Yudhvir Singh Charak and Akash Madhwal, was relentless. Both picked up three wickets each, choking the CSK lineup at crucial moments.
Chennai’s total was competitive but not overwhelming. With Royals’ top order firing, the chase always seemed within reach once the early runs came.
Stats Snapshot: Royals vs CSK IPL 2025 Final Match
Team | Score | Top Scorers | Key Bowlers |
---|---|---|---|
Chennai Super Kings | 187/8 in 20 overs | Ayush Mhatre (43), Dewald Brevis (42) | Yudhvir Singh Charak (3/47), Akash Madhwal (3/29) |
Rajasthan Royals | 188/4 in 17.1 overs | Vaibhav Suryavanshi (57), Sanju Samson (41) | R Ashwin (2/41) |
The win was a small consolation for Rajasthan Royals fans who endured a rough season. But spotting a 14-year-old stand tall under pressure? That’s something rare and exciting.
You have to wonder what the future holds for Suryavanshi. Can he be the next big thing to emerge from the IPL? For a team lacking consistency, such young talents bring hope, even if it’s just a glimmer.
The IPL keeps throwing surprises every year — and maybe this season’s takeaway is that the Royals’ future might just be bright after all.