'I wasn’t expecting...': Jofra Archer reacts after smashing match-winning cameo against MI to secure playoff berth

Rajasthan Royals finished their league stage campaign in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on a high note. The Riyan Parag-led side defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) by a big margin of 30 runs on Sunday, May 24 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. RR's star pacer Jofra Archer delivered a stunning all-round show to help the side secure a playoff berth.

Jofra Archer's important cameo vs MI

The England pacer was promoted up in the batting order at No.7, and played a crucial quick-fire cameo of 32 runs off just 15 balls. With Archer's cameo RR managed to post 205/8 at the end of first innings. In the second innings, Archer produced a masterclass spell of 3/17 in four overs. He took key wickets of Rohit Sharma, Naman Dhir and Hardik Pandya which dismantled MI's batting order.

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Eventually, the Royals emerged as victors by 30 runs and Archer was given the Player of the Match award for his all-round show in a crucial game for the Rajasthan-based franchise. After the game, Archer opened up on his all-round performance which came as a surprise for many.

The star right-arm pacer revealed that he was not expecting to have a promotion in the batting order because of the impact sub. Archer did claim himself as a proper all-rounder despite everybody considering him a bowler.

"I wasn’t expecting to bat so early due to the impact sub. Main coach told me to put pads on, and I was surprised at first. I class myself as an all-rounder, but folks call me a bowler. Body good, touchwood," said Archer.

Reacting on his sensational bowling spell of 3/17, Archer claimed that this was not his best season at all, as he experienced inconsistencies while bowling at the good areas. Regardless of his beliefs, Archer was happy with his performance in an important game.

“I don’t think this is my best season. Every time I take the ball, I have to hit good areas. Not always rewarded, happy it came on an important day. If you get hit for a boundary off a good ball, it’s okay," said Archer.

How has Jofra Archer fared in IPL 2026?

The Caribbean pacer has enjoyed a stellar campaign in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, taking 21 wickets in just 14 games at a superb economy rate of 8.77 and a bowling average of 21.71 for RR. His match-winning spell of 3/17 against MI, turns out to be his best bowling figures so far.