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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) find themselves back in contention with three wins from their last four matches, but the overall outlook still raises questions. While their recent form is encouraging, the lack of standout balance and depth keeps them away from serious title talk. Much of their success hinges on Josh Hazlewood’s impact, particularly at the death. His composed performance against Mumbai was instrumental, and keeping him fit will be vital.
The batting, however, remains under scrutiny. Phil Salt and Devdutt Padikkal are yet to consistently deliver at this level, while the middle order doesn’t inspire great confidence. The potential of Virat Kohli remains central to RCB’s hopes, but support from the rest will be key.
Delhi Capitals (DC), on the other hand, are flying high with three wins from three, including impressive outings against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings. What’s more intimidating is that they may not have played their best XI yet. The return of Faf du Plessis from injury would bolster their top order, possibly pushing the struggling Jake Fraser-McGurk out of the frame.
KL Rahul’s promotion back to the top paid immediate dividends, and their spin trio of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Vipraj Nigram offers a stranglehold in the middle overs. Throw in the firepower of Mitchell Starc with the new ball and at the death, and Delhi seem equipped to expose RCB’s vulnerabilities.
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Pitch Report – Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Chinnaswamy traditionally supports high-scoring encounters but hasn’t played as flat recently. RCB were restricted to 169 in their last game here against Gujarat, suggesting some help for bowlers, especially early on. However, the ground still ranks among the fastest-scoring venues in the last five years. Expect another high-octane clash with plenty of sixes on offer.
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Fantasy XI – RCB vs DC
Here’s a balanced Fantasy XI to consider for the match:
Top Picks
Virat Kohli – In form and key to RCB’s top order.
KL Rahul – Back at the top and coming off a strong performance.
Axar Patel – All-round value with bat and ball.
Josh Hazlewood – Death overs specialist.
Mitchell Starc – Wicket-taker with new and old ball.
Fantasy XI
1. KL Rahul (wk)
2. Virat Kohli (vc)
3. Faf du Plessis
4. Rajat Patidar
5. Tristan Stubbs
6. Axar Patel
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Kuldeep Yadav
9. Josh Hazlewood (c)
10. Mitchell Starc
11. Mohit Sharma
12th Man (Impact Sub): Phil Salt / Devdutt Padikkal (batting sub depending on toss)
Captain tip: Hazlewood is a value captain pick in a low-scoring or tight match scenario.
Vice-captain tip: Kohli or Rahul depending on who bats first.
–Delhi to win