Rajasthan Royals have undoubtedly been one of the best sides in the IPL (Indian Premier League) since 2022. Under the leadership of Sanju Samson, the Royals have managed to reach the summit clash of the tournament in 2022 and came very close in 224 as well.
However, with the IPL 2025 mega auction, the Royals let go of several big names like Jos Buttler, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravichandran Ashwin, and many more stars. In return, the side roped in Nitish Rana, Jofra Archer, and many names in the mega auction. However, with the marquee signing of Jofra Archer comes the question of his fitness. Last year, Archer missed the IPL season despite being signed with Mumbai Indians.
Let us have a look at three players that RR could have signed instead of Jofra Archer:
3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Veteran India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar could have been one pick that could have benefitted Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025. The 34-year-old has been influential for various sides throughout the years of the IPL. In the recently concluded mega auction, Kumar was roped in by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 10.75 crore.
However, if the Royals had gone to secure Bhuvneshwar’s services, they would have gotten an experienced Indian pacer in their arsenal and would have saved up on the overseas slot as well. It is worth noting that with 176 matches played in the IPL, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has taken 181 wickets to his name and maintains an economy of 7.56.
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2. Arshdeep Singh
One of the most anticipated players in the IPL 2025 mega auction, Arshdeep Singh came under the hammer, and several sides went after India’s star pacer, including Rajasthan Royals. However, the Royals failed to secure Arshdeep’s services as the ace pacer went back to Punjab Kings as they used the RTM card.
Arshdeep could have been another Indian spearhead for Royals, and would help them save up on the overseas slot. It is worth noting that the ace pacer has been exceptional for Punjab over the years and will once again look to run riots in the upcoming season.
1. Trent Boult
New Zealand’s pacer Trent Boult could have been another alternative to Jofra Archer for Rajasthan Royals. Boult had represented the Royals for three years and was undoubtedly their best bowler alongside Chahal. However, the franchise not retaining Boult came through as a shock for many.
In the mega auction, Rajasthan Royals attempted to go after Boult after securing Archer. However, the side was outbid by Mumbai Indians as they missed out on their premier pacer.