Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) climbed to the top of the IPL 2026 points table with a five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), bowling them out for 146 before completing the chase with nearly five overs remaining.
RCB’s victory was built on disciplined bowling, with Josh Hazlewood and Krunal Pandya playing key roles in applying pressure. While others claimed more wickets, their control created opportunities that led to breakthroughs at the other end. LSG’s innings was further disrupted by a difficult outing for Rishabh Pant, who was struck on the left elbow early, retired hurt, and later returned before being dismissed for 1 off 6.
Hazlewood Sets the Tone
Josh Hazlewood’s return proved influential as he delivered three overs in the early phase, helping RCB seize control. On a dry surface offering limited pace and bounce, he maintained tight lines and denied batters room to score freely. When Pant attempted to attack, he was struck and forced off the field, while Nicholas Pooran was bowled after dragging the ball onto his stumps.
RCB’s seamers kept scoring in check, conceding just over seven runs per over in the first 10 overs. When operating around the off-stump channel, the rate dropped further, tightening the pressure. Hazlewood’s spell was so effective that attacking field placements, including a slip and short leg, were employed.
Krunal Reaches Milestone
Krunal Pandya added to the pressure with a notable performance that also marked his entry into the group of spinners with 100 IPL wickets. His variation proved effective, including a delivery that dismissed Mitchell Marsh, who had scored 40 of LSG’s 71 at that stage.
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Marsh was bowled off an inside edge after misjudging the bounce. Hazlewood and Krunal combined to deliver 23 dot balls, building sustained pressure that allowed Rasikh Salam (4 for 24) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3 for 27) to capitalise. LSG lost five wickets in the final overs, with Pant among those dismissed after returning to bat with his arm strapped.
Kohli Leads the Chase
Virat Kohli, appearing as an Impact Sub for the first time in his IPL career, provided a strong start to the chase. He struck six fours and a six in his first 14 balls, helping RCB reach 60 in the powerplay. LSG’s tendency to bowl too full aided his scoring early on.
As conditions became more challenging and lengths improved, Kohli slowed down, scoring 17 runs off his final 20 balls before being dismissed for 49 off 34.
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Patidar Maintains Momentum
Rajat Patidar continued RCB’s attacking approach with a boundary-heavy innings, maintaining pressure on the bowlers. His six-hitting form remained a key feature, with 21 sixes this season and a balls-per-six ratio under five.
RCB maintained their aggressive intent throughout the chase, closing out the match comfortably despite losing a few additional wickets along the way.
Key Highlights
- RCB bowled out LSG for 146
- Rasikh Salam took 4/24, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3/27
- Virat Kohli scored 49 in the chase
- Rajat Patidar continued his strong hitting form
- RCB chased the target with nearly five overs to spare
RCB’s combination of controlled bowling and proactive batting ensured a convincing win, lifting them to the top of the standings.
