In a season that started with such promise, Rajasthan Royals have stumbled upon an unwelcome piece of history. During their recent clash against Gujarat Titans in Jaipur, the Royals conceded a massive 229/4—marking the seventh time this IPL season they've allowed an opponent to cross the 200-run threshold. That equals the all-time IPL record for most 200-plus totals conceded in a single campaign.

To put that in perspective, Rajasthan now shares this dubious milestone with Sunrisers Hyderabad (2024), Lucknow Super Giants (2025), and Punjab Kings (2025)—all of whom also gave up seven 200+ scores in their respective seasons. For a team that once prided itself on disciplined bowling, this is a worrying pattern.

The damage on Sunday was led by Gujarat Titans' opening duo. Shubman Gill played a captain's knock of 84 off just 44 balls, despite battling discomfort in his left foot. He and Sai Sudharsan (55) added 118 runs for the first wicket, dismantling the RR attack on a flat Jaipur pitch. Late fireworks from Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia pushed GT to their highest total of IPL 2026.

Rajasthan's bowling woes were most evident in the Powerplay, where Jofra Archer had a rare off day, leaking 46 runs in three overs. While Ravindra Jadeja briefly slowed the scoring through the middle overs, the Royals simply couldn't contain Gujarat's relentless charge.

Defending 229, Afghanistan's spin wizard Rashid Khan stole the show with brilliant figures of 4/33. Jason Holder (3/12) and Kagiso Rabada (2/33) provided able support as Gujarat Titans bowled Rajasthan out for just 152 in 16.3 overs, sealing a commanding 77-run victory.

For Rajasthan Royals, this marks a troubling trend. Despite a strong start to IPL 2026 and once boasting the tournament's best bowling numbers, they've now repeatedly failed to control high-scoring games. With the playoffs race heating up, the Royals will need to find answers—and fast—if they hope to turn their season around.