Rajasthan Royals’ teenage star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma had a funny exchange before their IPL 2026 match on Friday. Before the game, Jitesh picked up Vaibhav’s bat, grinning as he thanked the youngster, who quickly shot back, “Arey bhai ohh, aap kyu kar rahein ho?” (Hey brother, why are you doing this?). The playful banter didn’t stop there—Vaibhav later told RR team manager Romi Bhinder, “Maine inko ek trick samjhayi, yeh trick mere upar aazma hain. Inke team mein itne batters hai, unse le rahe hai.” Translation? “I taught him a trick, and now he’s trying it on me. He’s got so many batters in his team, but he’s only taking it from me.”
Jitesh kept the teasing going, saying, “Kyu maangu yaar, kya maanga, ek ko bhi puch ke bata maine maanga toh,” which means, “Why should I ask, what have I even asked for? Show me if I asked anyone else.” Vaibhav fired back, “Apko maine bola than na, IPL ke baad main de dunga. Phir bhi apko zid hain ke abhi hi chaiye aapko,” or, “I told you I’d give it to you after the IPL, but you’re insisting on having it now.”
On to the actual match—Rajasthan Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati. RR swapped in Brijesh Sharma for Tushar Deshpande, while RCB strengthened their bowling by bringing back Josh Hazlewood in place of Jacob Duffy.
Riyan Parag spoke about the pitch, noting that although it was expected to be dry, the rain might have left a bit of moisture. He pointed out that his team’s been clinical so far, sticking to their plans, and honestly, he doesn’t mind if he doesn’t get much to do—as long as the openers keep doing their job.
“We’re bowling first. The pitch was supposed to be dry, but there’s been rain, so there’s bound to be some moisture. We’d like to take advantage of that,” said RR captain Parag.
On the RCB side, Rajat Patidar mentioned how the crowd in Guwahati was making it feel like a home game. He confirmed Duffy was sitting out for Hazlewood, calling him a solid, experienced addition. But, right as he spoke, the rain came back to stall the match again—just when it looked like things were about to start.
“This is our first away game. Honestly, it feels like home with all this support, so thanks to everyone. Sadly, Duffy misses out, but Josh Hazlewood comes in. Duffy did well these last two games, but Josh brings that extra experience. Having him in the squad gives us a boost,” Patidar said.
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