Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Steve Smith expressed disappointment but urged his team not to lose hope after their third straight defeat of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, this time going down by 57 runs to Mumbai Indians (MI) in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (October 6). 

Bowling first after losing the toss, RR conceded a massive total of 193/4 in 20 overs with only wrist-spinner Shreyas Gopal (2/28) proving inexpensive on the night. 

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In the run-chase also, it was one man show, as opener Jos Buttler (70) did finally found his best touch, but RR were bowled out for just 136 in 18.1 overs. 

While question marks have been raised over the quality of their bowling, this was also the third innings in a row RR's batting, their strength, let them down massively since moving out of the comfort of Sharjah. 

Smith (6), who himself failed another game, stressed much the same and hinted that the team does miss the services of in-form all-rounder Ben Stokes, who is currently in quarantine and won't be available till October 11th when RR face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Dubai. 

"I think losing wickets early doesn't help, we haven't been able to get off to a good start in the last three games. Outside of Jos and Archer at the end, we have a bit of work to do on our batting. He (Stokes) is not out till the 10th I think. He is not too far away, hopefully, we can get a few wins before he's back and then gain momentum," said Smith at the post-match presentation ceremony, as quoted by Cricbuzz. 

However, the skipper is optimistic of a turnaround in his team's fortunes as they go deeper into the competition. 

"I don't think we need to panic too much, it is just about implementing our plans and playing some good cricket for longer."

"We haven't been able to do that in the last three games and we have to turn it around quickly. Hopefully, get a bit of momentum," he added.