March 28 marks the start of IPL 2026. That day lights up with the first match – Royal Challengers Bengaluru, last year’s winners, face Sunrisers Hyderabad. A new chapter begins under floodlights. Expect roaring crowds, sharp turns in momentum, and edge-of-the-seat moments from the very first ball.
One team meets the other at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, just as excitement builds ahead of the first match. Since storms often roll in without warning here, skies might interfere when players take the field. While fans wait, thoughts turn to clouds gathering overhead instead of boundary shots. Rain has interrupted games before in this city, so a pause during play seems possible once again. Whether showers arrive or not, tension climbs as start time nears.
When it comes to the matchup, RCB stood out clearly in IPL 2025, finally lifting the trophy after years of falling short. Captained by Rajat Patidar, the team claimed its inaugural championship. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad, even with big names on paper, missed the playoffs entirely – something they’ll want to fix fast. A strong start this time around could shift how things unfold for them.
Bengaluru weather report:
Fans heading out under gray clouds might actually dodge drops – rain seems unlikely in Bengaluru during the match. Clear views overhead should stick around, says AccuWeather, though sticky air could tag along. Around 20°C, the warmth sits just right, not too sharp, not too flat.
Squads:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Squad List
Starting off, Sunrisers Hyderabad line up with Pat Cummins leading the group. Next comes Travis Head, followed by Abhishek Sharma stepping into place. Aniket Verma takes his spot, while R. Smaran waits nearby. Ishan Kishan stands ready, just before Heinrich Klaasen joins the circle. Then there’s Nitish Kumar Reddy moving in, along with Harsh Dubey holding position. Kamindu Mendis arrives, as Harshal Patel lines up beside him. Brydon Carse appears, plus Jaydev Unadkat standing tall. Eshan Malinga steps forward, then Zeeshan Ansari follows close. Shivang Kumar enters, backed by Salil Arora staying alert. Sakib Hussain watches from the edge, where Onkar Tarmale stays prepared. Amit Kumar holds ground, while Praful Hinge remains on call. Krains Fuletra moves quietly behind, yet Liam Livingstone draws attention without trying. Shivam Mavi shifts stance, whereas Jack Edwards closes the list
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