The Guwahati crowd was treated to a masterclass in aggressive T20 batting as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) shrugged off an early setback to post a formidable 201/8 against the Rajasthan Royals (RR). In what is being hailed as the most high-pressure match of IPL 2026 so far, RCB’s captain Rajat Patidar stood tall, proving why he is the right man to lead the defending champions. Now, all eyes turn to the bowling crease as Josh Hazlewood prepares to make his mark on the second innings.
The Patidar Storm and Kohli’s Flash
The innings began with a shock for the RCB faithful as Jofra Archer dismissed Phil Salt for a golden duck on the very first ball. However, the stadium erupted shortly after as Virat Kohli walked in. Kohli’s stay was brief but impactful, smashing 32 off just 16 balls at a strike rate of 200, including seven crisp boundaries.
The real anchor, however, was Rajat Patidar. The skipper played a measured yet destructive innings of 63 off 40 balls. Balancing strike rotation with raw power, Patidar cleared the ropes four times, ensuring that RCB never lost momentum in the middle overs despite losing wickets at intervals.
RR’s Bowlers Fight Back
Rajasthan Royals stayed in the game through their spinners. Ravi Bishnoi was particularly impressive, finishing with figures of 2/32, including the big wicket of Kohli. Brijesh Sharma also chipped in with two crucial wickets. While Jofra Archer started brilliantly, the late-order onslaught by Romario Shepherd (22 off 11) and Impact Player Venkatesh Iyer (29* off 15) ensured that RR would have a mountain to climb under the Guwahati lights.
The Big Question: Can Hazlewood Defend 201?
The target is 202 runs at a required rate of 10.1 per over. Historically, the Barsapara Stadium is a batting paradise, and with dew likely to play a factor, Rajasthan Royals will feel they are still in the hunt. However, the narrative has shifted with the official return of Josh Hazlewood.
Hazlewood’s precision, combined with Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s swing, will be the ultimate test for RR's openers. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryanshi have been unstoppable this season, but they haven't faced the "Hoff" yet. If Hazlewood can provide two early breakthroughs, RCB will firmly be in the driver’s seat to end RR’s winning streak.