Ahead of the Rajasthan Royals’ much-anticipated IPL 2025 match against Delhi Capitals, RR batter Nitish Rana has expressed a strong desire to contribute more with the ball. Although traditionally a batter, Nitish Rana has showcased his all-round potential in the past, picking up 10 wickets in his IPL career.
Speaking before the clash against DC at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Rana stated he is ready to bowl regularly if the team needs it.
“If the team demands anything from you, I will never back down,” Rana said.
“I think I should bowl. I also want to bowl regularly because I have already bowled and I am a good bowler… I will talk to Sanju and see what happens,” he added.
Our job is to handle the pressure- Nitish Rana
After a mixed start to the season, with only two wins in six matches, the Rajasthan Royals are currently placed eighth on the points table. In contrast, Delhi Capitals, despite a recent loss to Mumbai Indians, are second. Rana believes handling pressure is crucial in the “world’s number one league” and feels the team should focus on the positives while learning from the losses.
“I think pressure is in every game and it is our job to handle that pressure. That is why we are professional cricketers,” Rana shared. He emphasized that mindset and adaptation matter more than personal milestones, adding, “60, 70, 80, 90, 100 is just a milestone… if those two points are in our favour, whether someone has made it 50, or 0, or 100, I think it is all the same.”
Flexible Batting and a Team-First Attitude by Nitish Rana
Nitish Rana’s approach to his role in the team is grounded in flexibility. Whether batting at number three or lower in the order, he’s willing to adapt based on the team’s strategy. With 117 runs in six innings, including a high score of 81, Rana’s performance reflects his team-first mentality.
“I try to fulfill the demand of the team that the team wants from me… And I am absolutely okay with whatever the team demands,” he said.
Rajasthan Royals’ all-rounder Nitish Rana, who previously captained Kolkata Knight Riders, was among the names floated by some as a potential leader. However, Rana believes the team management made the right decision by entrusting the captaincy to Riyan Parag. Now, the question is — will Rana get the opportunity to display his bowling prowess on the field this season?