Fans are set for an exciting IPL 2026 clash as Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Gujarat Titans at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The biggest talking point is the face-off between Virat Kohli and Rashid Khan, which could decide the match.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes this contest will play a key role in the outcome.
Kohli vs Rashid Khan: Key Battle to Watch
Pathan says this is a match within the match. Rashid Khan is in good form, while Kohli has decent numbers against him.
The big question is whether Kohli will attack Rashid early or play carefully and build his innings.
There is also a chance that Gujarat Titans may use Rashid in the powerplay to put pressure on Kohli right from the start.
Kohli vs Rashid Khan Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Balls Faced | 69 |
| Runs Scored | 86 |
| Strike Rate | 124.6 |
| Average | 43.00 |
| Dismissals | 2 |
| Boundaries | 6 fours, 2 sixes |
These numbers show Kohli can score against Rashid, but Rashid has also managed to dismiss him a couple of times.
GT Bowling Strength and Rashid’s Role
Gujarat Titans have one of the strongest bowling attacks this season. Their pace unit includes Prasidh Krishna, Kagiso Rabada, and Mohammed Siraj.
Rashid Khan adds experience and control in the spin department. In IPL 2026, he has taken 6 wickets in 6 matches with an economy of 7.70.
His role will be very important, especially when bowling to top players like Kohli.
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Tactical Plans for Gujarat Titans
Irfan Pathan suggests that Gujarat Titans should use Rashid Khan smartly in key moments.
One idea is to save an over of Rashid for Tim David, as this matchup could work in GT’s favor in the middle or death overs.
Kumar Kushagra: A Player to Watch
Pathan also spoke about Kumar Kushagra, a young batter in the GT squad.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Age | 21 |
| IPL 2026 Matches | 1 |
| Runs | 18 |
He feels Kushagra should be given a chance at number 3. His batting style is compact, and he has experience in that position in domestic cricket.
This match could be decided by a few key moments:
- How Kohli plays against Rashid Khan
- Whether GT uses Rashid in the powerplay
- If Kushagra gets a chance in the playing XI
- How GT’s pace attack performs
The contest between Kohli and Rashid is expected to be the highlight of the match. Both players are match-winners, and their battle could shape the final result.
