Ben Stokes cannot come soon enough for Rajasthan Royals who fell to a third successive defeat in the 2020 Indian Premier League.
Steve Smith and his men were completely outplayed in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday as defending champions Mumbai Indians wrapped up a comprehensive 57-run win.
A sparkling 79 from Suryakumar Yadav and some big hitting from Hardik Pandya in the death had helped Mumbai post a daunting total of 193-4. Rajasthan debutant Kartik Tyagi was one of the few rare bright spots for the bowling side who looked lacklustre for the most part.
In reply, Rajasthan’s batting woes continued even though Jos Buttler fired for the first time in the tournament. The England opener smashed a fine 70, but was unable to avert a big collapse which saw the Royals bowled out for just 136.
India ace Jasprit Bumrah was among the wickets for Mumbai and helped himself to four scalps.
