Donovan Ferreira admits that the years spent waiting during the IPL have been a major driving force behind his performances. Rajasthan Royals this season.Ahead of RR’s crucial IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans in Jaipur, the South African batsman reflected on finally getting regular opportunities after limited game time during his first three seasons in the tournament.Ferreira has emerged as one of them. Rajasthan Royals’ Most Dangerous Finishers in IPL 2026 The 27-year-old scored 229 runs in 10 matches at an average of 45.80 and an impressive strike rate of 177.52. His impact has been particularly noticeable in the death overs, where he has consistently accelerated the innings with fearless hitting. Eleven of his 16 sixes this season have come between 17 and 20 overs, highlighting his effectiveness as a finisher.
When Ferreira was asked about his success at the end of the innings, he responded lightly.“I don’t really know. It’s got to be right in the middle of my bat. Or they’re just sending me better bats. No, I think it’s just worked that way, swinging nice and hard. And it leaves me nice and fresh now, like a fully charged car battery after a full break. So yeah, we’re ready to have more success today,” Ferra said.The South African explained that closing the Games is a role he has played throughout his career and one he genuinely enjoys despite the pressure associated with it.“I mean, that’s kind of my role on the team and that’s what I have time for. So, I think it’s exciting for me to be in that role. I’ve always been in that role my whole career, so it feels great when it comes because when it doesn’t come, you look like, how can I say, it doesn’t feel good. But yes, for me, it’s coming, so hopefully it can go ahead,” he added.Ferreira also revealed that the lack of opportunities during his previous IPL campaigns continued to motivate him this season.“I think a big motivation for me, especially in the IPL, is now my fourth season and I haven’t really had much opportunity. I had too many drinks in the first three seasons,” he said.“So, for me, especially in this tournament, that was a huge motivation. And then going into other tournaments, I just try and get motivated for that particular tournament because for me, it’s very important to be focused, fine and focused in every tournament.
