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RR Coach Backs Riyan Parag, Hetmyer Ahead of MI Clash
Sandy Verma | April 8, 2026 5:24 AM CST

Still, Rajasthan Royals’ performance coach Siddhartha Lahiri isn’t worried about personal slumps – instead, attention stays locked on pushing pace through IPL 2026. Though talk rises now and then, he sees rhythm mattering more than stats. Because of this, the group leans into speed, not scores. Even when form dips, energy drives play. So far, that mindset holds firm. While others watch numbers, they chase momentum. Through it all, consistency comes from tempo, not technique. Right now, that belief shapes their path.

Facing reporters before Sunday’s game with Mumbai, Lahiri suggested that how people see success must shift as T20s change over time

These days, calling something a worry means nothing to us. What matters is how fast the team moves. Ever since Sooryavanshi stepped in, play has picked up pace. When speed rises like that, someone always ends up on the outside. It matters most when someone steps up during the game to keep things moving. This was precisely how Dhruv, Jaiswal and Vaibhav played in our previous match,” he remarked.

Starting off differently each time helps keep thoughts fresh. The coach of the Royals said openly that how players such as Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag are playing right now isn’t causing worry within the team setup. Mentioning names specifically, he pointed out there’s no real concern around Hetmyer or Riyan struggling at the plate. Instead of panicking, they feel calm about where things stand overall. This quiet confidence came through clearly when Lahiri spoke up during his comments. His belief rests less on control, more on support. Coaches, according to him, shouldn’t act like they’re running the show for every success. That kind of thinking misses the point completely. What actually matters? Guiding hitters gently toward their natural groove again. Not pushing. Just enabling smoother returns to familiar timing and balance while hitting. Helping looks different than fixing. Ending there felt honest enough.

Lahiri further revealed that specific training sessions have been conducted with players to fine-tune their approach. “We’ve worked with them in certain areas, and I’m glad Dhruv is doing really well. Riyan is also batting well but has been a bit unlucky. It’s only been two games–he started well in the first match. Hopefully, both will have a good tournament for us,” he said.

Chasing their third win in a row, RR face off against Mumbai Indians at Guwahati under lights Tuesday. Still stinging from defeat by Delhi Capitals, MI look to reset against a confident opponent


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