IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Opt to Bowl as RCB Welcomes Hazlewood
Synopsis
In a thrilling IPL 2026 encounter, the Rajasthan Royals chose to bowl first against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati. Both teams made strategic changes to their lineups as they vie for victory in this intense match.
Key Takeaways
Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bowl.
Josh Hazlewood replaces Jacob Duffy in the RCB lineup.
Captain Riyan Parag focuses on exploiting pitch conditions.
The match atmosphere is energized by a supportive crowd.
Both teams are adjusting their strategies to secure victory.
Guwahati, April 10 (NationPress) In Match 16 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) won the toss and chose to bowl against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Friday.
RR made a strategic change to their lineup, bringing in Brijesh Sharma for Tushar Deshpande, while RCB strengthened their bowling attack by reintroducing Josh Hazlewood in place of Jacob Duffy, enhancing their experience and control.
Captain Riyan Parag expressed that the conditions were expected to be dry, but rain could introduce some early moisture. He emphasized that his team has remained focused and is committed to executing their strategic game plan. Parag also mentioned he is content with having a reduced personal role as long as the openers maintain their strong performance.
"We are opting to bowl first. Initially, it was anticipated to be a dry wicket, but with the rain, there will be some moisture to capitalize on. Our aim is to make the most of the pitch conditions," stated RR captain Parag.
RCB captain Rajat Patidar acknowledged the tremendous crowd support, which has created a home-game atmosphere for his team. He confirmed that Duffy is out of the match, with Hazlewood stepping in, and described Hazlewood's presence as a significant advantage. However, just as he spoke, the rain returned, interrupting the flow after it seemed the weather had improved.
“This marks our first away game. Thank you to everyone for your support; it truly feels like a home crowd. Unfortunately, Duffy is not playing today, but we trust in Josh Hazlewood's experience. His inclusion will certainly boost our morale,” shared Patidar.
Playing XIs:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Josh Hazlewood
Impact substitutes: Jacob Bethell, Rasikh Salam, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, Kanishk Chouhan
Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma
Impact substitutes: Shubham Dubey, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tushar Deshpande, Ravi Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Point of View
The match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru presents an intriguing contest, with RR's decision to bowl first potentially influenced by the weather conditions. Both teams are making tactical adjustments, emphasizing their commitment to winning.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams are playing in IPL 2026 Match 16?
The teams playing in IPL 2026 Match 16 are Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Who won the toss in the match?
Rajasthan Royals won the toss and opted to bowl.
What changes were made to the playing XI?
Rajasthan Royals brought in Brijesh Sharma for Tushar Deshpande, and RCB replaced Jacob Duffy with Josh Hazlewood.
What is the significance of Josh Hazlewood's inclusion?
Josh Hazlewood's experience is expected to enhance RCB's bowling attack.
Where is the match being held?
The match is being held at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
