'I think the challenge will be for Rajasthan Royals after their disappointing loss against Gujarat Titans' - Graeme Smith

Former South African cricketer Graeme Smith, who was a part of the Rajasthan Royals team in the initial years, believes that the pressure will be on the Sanju Samson-led side as they are going to play in the IPL 2022 Qualifier 2 against Royal Challengers Bangalore as they are coming on the back of a defeat.

However, the veteran batter also added that Rajasthan will try to turn it around, and Qualifier 2 will be a cracker of a contest. 

RCB and RR have already done well by showcasing their great skills and class in the ongoing season to bring them into a position where they can certainly win the title. 

While RCB are yet to win their first IPL trophy, RR couldn't continue their success after lifting the trophy in the inaugural season in 2008.

While speaking on Star Sports, Smith stated, "I think the challenge will be for Rajasthan Royals after their disappointing loss against Gujarat Titans (in Qualifier 1). They must be hurt. Can they pick themselves up? RCB, on the other hand, is on a high. They'll be keen to turn it around and put back a high skill level in the game. So, I agree with Ravi that we are going to have a cracker of a game on Friday night." 

Former Team India coach Ravi Shastri also opinionated on the royal affair between the two teams. He said that they will leave no stones unturned to win the game. 

"It's been 14 years for RCB (as they've never owned that elusive silverware) and 13 years since Rajasthan won their last title in the inaugural season. So between the two of them, it's been 27 years (laughs). They both want it badly, and it will be a battle of Royals. Let's wait for that one. It's going to be a great contest as both the teams would want to win it badly," Shastri further stated.