Agencies
Bengaluru
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look to start their Indian Premier League 2026 campaign on a commanding note when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium here on Saturday.
The spotlight will also be on Ishan Kishan, who is set to lead SRH in the initial phase of the tournament with regular captain Pat Cummins sidelined due to injury.
The Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for its short boundaries and batting-friendly conditions, is expected to once again favour stroke-makers. Over the years, the venue has produced several high-scoring encounters, from Chris Gayle’s explosive knocks to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s staggering 287/3, underlining the challenge for bowlers.
RCB enter the contest with confidence after a dominant 2025 season that culminated in their maiden IPL title. While their core batting unit remains strong, injuries to key pacers could test their bowling depth early in the competition.
SRH, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing previous campaign where they finished sixth, missing the playoffs following a string of defeats towards the business end. Despite concerns over their bowling resources, the Hyderabad side possesses a formidable batting line-up capable of exploiting the conditions.
