Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Delhi Capitals in Match 26 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at Bengaluru, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position on the points table. RCB enter as one of the most dominant sides, while DC look to find consistency.
Match details
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Date: April 18, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM IST | 3:00 AM PST | 10:00 AM GMT
Team overviews
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been in exceptional form this season, showcasing dominance with both bat and ball. Led by Rajat Patidar, their batting lineup has fired consistently, especially at home, where they remain unbeaten. With strong contributions from top and middle order, RCB have emerged as a formidable unit.
Delhi Capitals have experienced a mixed campaign so far. Under Axar Patel’s leadership, they have shown glimpses of brilliance but lack consistency. With power hitters like David Miller and Tristan Stubbs, DC possess the firepower but will need a collective performance to challenge RCB.
Key players
Rajat Patidar has been in outstanding form, scoring 222 runs in five innings at a remarkable strike rate. His role in the middle overs has been crucial in RCB’s success.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has led the bowling attack effectively, picking up seven wickets, all at this venue. His experience and control make him a key weapon for RCB.
Head-to-head record
Matches played: 33
Royal Challengers Bengaluru wins: 12
Delhi Capitals wins: 20
No result: 1
Delhi Capitals hold the advantage in head-to-head encounters.
Pitch report
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium continues to be a batting paradise. All matches played here in IPL 2026 have been high-scoring, reflecting the flat pitch and short boundaries. Teams are likely to aim for totals around or above 200, making it a challenging venue for bowlers.
Probable playing XIs
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Captain: Rajat Patidar)
Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam Dar, Suyash Sharma
Impact Player: Devdutt Padikkal
Delhi Capitals (Captain: Axar Patel)
Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Auqib Nabi Dar, Vipraj Nigam, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar
Impact Player: Sameer Rizvi
Probable match scenarios
If Royal Challengers Bengaluru bat first, they are likely to target a score between 190 and 200, relying on their explosive batting lineup. Their bowlers will aim to defend by applying pressure in key phases.
If Delhi Capitals bat first, they could aim for 210 to 220, given their aggressive batting potential. Their bowlers will need early breakthroughs to stay competitive.
The chasing side may hold a slight advantage due to the venue’s history of high-scoring run chases.
Live streaming and broadcast
India: JioStar Network channels, JioHotstar app and website
Pakistan: Tapmad TV, local sports broadcasters
United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go app
Australia: Fox Cricket, Kayo Sports
Global: Official IPL broadcast partners and streaming platforms
Match prediction
Royal Challengers Bengaluru enter the contest as favorites due to their dominant form and strong record at home. Delhi Capitals have the batting strength to challenge but must improve consistency across departments. If RCB maintain their current momentum, they are likely to secure another victory, although a high-scoring contest could keep DC in the game.
