We haven’t done well in bowling; neither taking wickets nor controlling runs – Dravid

Rahul Dravid on Rajasthan Royals' Bowling Issues

Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid has pointed out the team's bowling problems after a 10-run loss to Punjab Kings.

Bowling Unit Underperformed

Dravid stated that the bowlers must take responsibility for the team's defeats, as they have struggled to take wickets and control the scoring rate throughout the season.

"If we look at the statistics of the entire season, we haven't been able to do well in bowling, neither in taking wickets nor in controlling the runs."

Chasing Targets

The team has been chasing in nine out of 10 matches, with targets ranging from 200-220 runs. Despite getting a good start from the openers, they have failed to finish the run chase.

"Even then, our openers are giving us a good start, but we aren't able to finish the run chase."

Fielding Concerns

Dravid also acknowledged the team's fielding concerns, including missing catches and not being able to finish games.

"Sometimes it looks like you've only won three matches. But if we look at it, we've lost five close matches."

Middle and Lower-Middle Order

Dravid expressed concerns about the middle and lower-middle order, stating that they have struggled to finish games and hit big shots.

"It's been a tough one. We've got close, but we haven't been able to finish the job."

Confidence in Young Middle Order

Despite the shortcomings, Dravid expressed confidence in the young middle order, backing them to come good after a bit more experience next season.

"This is really a quality middle order. You've got Riyan (Parag) and Dhruv (Jurel) and then Sanju (Samson) was playing in that middle order today as well, so that's really quality India kind of players with an overseas guy who's also playing international cricket."