As Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, the stakes couldn’t be more contrasting. For RCB, it’s all about securing a top-two finish, which guarantees a safety net in the playoffs. For SRH, already eliminated from the playoff race, it’s about finishing with pride and spoiling someone else’s party.
RCB, sitting second with 8 wins from 12 games, know the math. One more victory and they’re a step closer to locking in that coveted spot in Qualifier 1. The fixture, originally set for Chinnaswamy, had to be moved due to weather concerns—but now all eyes are on the returning Virat Kohli, playing his first match since announcing retirement. He’s been in sublime touch, scoring 505 runs at a strike rate of 143.46. His duel with Mohammed Shami, who’s dismissed him four times in the IPL, is set to be a defining clash.
Meanwhile, RCB’s batting has relied heavily on Kohli and Tim David, who has been brutal at the death with a strike rate of 193+. The team will hope Rajat Patidar, currently struggling with just 53 runs in his last 5 innings, finds form ahead of the playoffs.
Bowling remains RCB’s worry. With Josh Hazlewood ruled out, the onus will fall on Bhuvneshwar Kumar (12 wickets) and the ever-impressive Yash Dayal, who has become a reliable death-overs option. Krunal Pandya, with 14 wickets, adds variety and control in the middle overs.
On the other side, SRH’s season has been underwhelming. Despite a recent win over Lucknow, the 2024 finalists are out of contention. But Abhishek Sharma, fresh off a Player of the Match performance and boasting 373 runs at a strike rate of 192.26, remains their brightest spark. He’ll be tested by Yash Dayal’s pinpoint yorkers. Add Heinrich Klaasen, Ishan Kishan, and Aniket Verma to the mix, and SRH still have firepower.
Historically, SRH lead the head-to-head 13-11, and they’ve often had the edge in tight contests.
For RCB, this isn’t just a match—it’s the door to destiny. For SRH, it’s a chance to slam that door shut.
