The race for the Orange Cap in Indian Premier League 2026 has gained fresh momentum after Ravichandran Ashwin backed Yashasvi Jaiswal as a stronger contender than Shubman Gill. Ashwin’s statement came following Rajasthan Royals’ commanding win over Mumbai Indians, where Jaiswal delivered a match-winning performance.

In a rain-shortened clash, Rajasthan Royals showcased dominance with both bat and ball. Jaiswal, along with youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, powered the team to a strong total in just 11 overs. The bowlers then stepped up, restricting Mumbai Indians comfortably to seal a one-sided victory.

Jaiswal’s unbeaten 77 off 32 balls stood out as the highlight of the match. Facing a quality attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult, he dominated the powerplay and anchored the innings with authority. His aggressive approach included 10 fours and four sixes, underlining his consistency and control this season.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised Jaiswal’s form and consistency, stating that he currently has the edge in the Orange Cap race. While acknowledging Gill as a strong competitor, Ashwin pointed out that the Gujarat Titans skipper missed a game, which slightly reduces his chances compared to Jaiswal’s steady run.

Ashwin also highlighted the impact of Sandeep Sharma, calling him one of the most effective Indian pacers in the league. He compared Sharma with top bowlers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Bumrah, praising his ability to swing the ball, deliver under pressure, and execute variations like the knuckleball effectively.

With 170 runs in just three matches and a strike rate exceeding 160, Jaiswal currently leads the Orange Cap standings. As the tournament progresses, his form could prove decisive for Rajasthan Royals, while the competition with players like Gill is expected to intensify in the coming matches.

Also Read: Jaiswal Says Sooryavanshi’s First-Over Attack On Bumrah Helped Ease Pressure