Key moments
In a thrilling season opener for IPL 2026, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) triumphed over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by six wickets at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28, 2026. RCB chased down a formidable target of 202 runs with 26 balls to spare, setting a high note for the tournament.
The match saw RCB opting to bowl first after winning the toss, a decision that paid off handsomely. Jacob Duffy, making his debut, was the standout bowler for RCB, claiming three wickets for just 22 runs. His performance was crucial in restricting SRH’s scoring potential, allowing RCB to stay in the game.
SRH had a strong start, with Ishan Kishan leading the charge, scoring an impressive 80 runs off 38 balls. His aggressive batting kept SRH’s hopes alive, but it was not enough to secure a win. Aniket Verma also contributed significantly, adding 43 runs off 18 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup struggled against RCB’s bowling attack.
On the other hand, RCB’s batting lineup was nothing short of spectacular. Virat Kohli, showcasing his class, scored 69 runs off 38 balls and remained not out at the end. His performance was complemented by Devdutt Padikkal, who scored 61 runs off just 26 balls, and Rajat Patidar, who chipped in with a quick 31 runs off 12 balls. This collective effort ensured that RCB reached the target comfortably.
Phil Salt also made his mark in the field, taking two exceptional catches that helped RCB maintain momentum during the match. The synergy between the players was evident, and the team’s spirit was high as they celebrated their victory.
Rajat Patidar praised Kohli’s influence on the game, stating, “No words can describe Virat Kohli. When he is in, the team is always in the chase. He is the No. 1 batter.” This sentiment was echoed by Jacob Duffy, who expressed his excitement about the win, saying, “Awesome, hell of a way to start the campaign. Great win.”
Despite the loss, Ishan Kishan acknowledged the importance of getting Kohli out early, remarking, “It was very important to get his wicket as soon as possible. Otherwise, if he keeps on going, it’s hard to stop him.” This highlights the respect and recognition Kohli commands on the field.
As the IPL 2026 season unfolds, this match sets a promising tone for RCB, who will look to build on this victory. The combination of seasoned players and fresh talent like Jacob Duffy could make them a formidable force in the tournament.
