Jofra Archer traces the history of Rajasthan Royals in the IPL (Image: IPL) Jofra Archer is on the verge of scripting history for Rajasthan Royals and needs just three more wickets to become the all-time leading wicket-taker. The England speedster could surpass Shane Watson when RR take on Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.Archer has been a key weapon for the Royals this season, particularly in the power overs, where his pace and control have consistently troubled the opposition batsmen. With LSG’s top order struggling for consistency, the upcoming clash presents the perfect opportunity for Archer to reach the milestone.
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Jofra Archer’s impact on Rajasthan Royals
Since making his IPL debut in 2018, Archer has been a vital part of the Royals line-up, featuring for the ‘Men in Pink’ in five out of six seasons. His only non-franchise action came with the Mumbai Indians, where he had a rather stunning success. In 53 matches for RR, Archer picked up 65 wickets at an impressive average of 24.47, with best figures of 3/15 and an economy rate of 7.79. So far in IPL 2026, he has taken eight wickets in six matches at an average of 22.37, with best figures of 2/19.Currently, Shane Watson tops the Royals’ wicket-taking charts with 67 wickets in 84 matches between 2008 and 2015. Yuzvendra Chahal (66 wickets in 46 matches) and Siddharth Trivedi (65 wickets in 76 matches) are close behind. With Archer level at 65 wickets, just three more scalps will see him go past Watson and etch his name into the franchise’s history books.Archer’s form extends beyond the IPL. He has taken 21 wickets at an average of 25.19 in 16 T20 matches this year. He was also England’s second highest wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup, taking 11 wickets in eight matches.Match preview: LSG under pressure at homeLucknow Super Giants return to the Ekana Stadium under pressure, having lost four of their six matches this season and still looking for their first home win. Their biggest concern remains an inconsistent top order that has repeatedly forced them into recovery situations.In contrast, Rajasthan Royals are coming in better form, currently fourth in the points table. Their strength in the power play, led by Archer, gives them a clear advantage in combat.LSG will look to young pacer Prince Yadav to counter RR’s aggressive start, but a lot will depend on whether their batting unit finally clicks. With the home advantage yet to translate into results, Lucknow need to quickly address their issues to remain in the playoffs.
