The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) begins with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) facing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday.
While Virat Kohli’s return in RCB colours is expected to grab headlines, SRH’s explosive batting lineup is set to add excitement to the contest. Rajat Patidar will lead RCB, while Ishan Kishan is expected to captain SRH in the early phase of the tournament due to Pat Cummins’ absence through injury.
RCB head into the contest as the defending champions after lifting the 2025 title with a final win over Punjab Kings. They will aim to start their campaign strongly, relying on key players such as Virat Kohli, Krunal Pandya, Rajat Patidar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Tim David as they look to successfully defend their crown and claim a second IPL trophy.
While Virat Kohli’s return in RCB colours is expected to grab headlines, SRH’s explosive batting lineup is set to add excitement to the contest. Rajat Patidar will lead RCB, while Ishan Kishan is expected to captain SRH in the early phase of the tournament due to Pat Cummins’ absence through injury.
RCB head into the contest as the defending champions after lifting the 2025 title with a final win over Punjab Kings. They will aim to start their campaign strongly, relying on key players such as Virat Kohli, Krunal Pandya, Rajat Patidar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Tim David as they look to successfully defend their crown and claim a second IPL trophy.
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches played: 26
- RCB wins: 11
- SRH wins: 13
- Tie/No Result: 2
