Explained: Why Jacob Duffy and Tushar Deshpande are not playing in today’s RR vs RCB IPL 2026 match? | Read
on friday Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) The IPL 2026 clash between India and India became a topic of discussion not only for the contest but also for the absence of two players – Jacob Duffy and Tushar Deshpande – from the playing XI. Both players had been part of their teams’ plans in recent matches, making their absence a topic of discussion among fans. However, a closer look makes it clear that these were not injury-related problems, but rather tactical decisions made based on team balance and match strategy.
Why is Jacob Duffy not playing for RCB?
Duffy’s absence from RCB’s squad came as a surprise, especially considering how much of an impact he had made in the initial stages of the tournament. The New Zealand fast bowler impressed with his consistency and wicket-taking ability, taking five wickets in the first two matches. His disciplined line and length, as well as his ability to extract pace, made him a valuable asset to RCB’s bowling unit.
However, team selection in T20 cricket often revolves around combinations and not just individual performances. In this case, Duffy had to make room for the return of Australian fast bowling leader Josh Hazlewood.
RCB captain Rajat Patidar clarified the decision on the toss and said, “Unfortunately, Duffy is not playing in this game. Josh (Hazlewood) is in for Duffy.” While acknowledging Duffy’s strong performance, Patidar stressed the importance of Hazlewood’s experience and skill.
Hazlewood’s return is important for many reasons. He was RCB’s leading wicket-taker during the successful IPL 2025 campaign and has performed consistently in high-pressure situations across formats. Although he missed the initial matches of IPL 2026 due to hamstring and Achilles problems after the Ashes, his full health made him an automatic choice for the playing XI.
From a tactical perspective, Hazlewood provides control in the powerplay and reliability in the final overs – qualities that are important in tight contests. Their height and accuracy allow them to generate bounce, which can be particularly effective on certain surfaces. While Duffy had done nothing wrong, the team management opted for a more experienced option to strengthen their bowling attack.
Why was Tushar Deshpande released by RR?
On the other hand, RR also made a significant change by dropping fast bowler Deshpande. Unlike the case of Duffy, the move was mostly about rotation and tactical flexibility, rather than a direct replacement for a star player.
Clarifying the decision on the toss, RR captain Riyan Parag said, “Tushar (Deshpande) is resting, Brijesh (Sharma) is joining.” This indicates that the team management is carefully managing the players’ workload, while also testing different bowling options.
Deshpande has been a reliable performer over the years in the IPL, known for his ability to bowl in challenging phases such as the final overs. However, in a long tournament like the IPL, teams often rotate their bowlers to maintain freshness and avoid fatigue or injuries.
In his place, Brijesh Sharma was included in the playing XI. The 27-year-old has already shown his potential in the season, which included a perfect spell against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) where he took one wicket while maintaining control. His inclusion suggests that RR were testing their bench strength, while also adapting their attack according to particular match circumstances.
RR vs RCB: Playing XI of both the teams
Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre BurgerSandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romerio Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Josh Hazlewood.
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