Royal Challengers Bengaluru are ready for an important home match against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. The team looks balanced, but there is some uncertainty around Josh Hazlewood, which could impact their bowling combination.
RCB Form and Key Players
RCB have looked like a well-settled side this season. Most players are contributing, which has helped the team stay consistent.
Batting Performance
- Virat Kohli has been very consistent, with his lowest score being 28 so far
- Phil Salt has returned to form after a slow start
- Devdutt Padikkal is in good touch
- Rajat Patidar has impressed in the middle order
- Tim David has played some powerful finishing knocks
Bowling Performance
- Krunal Pandya has found rhythm and is taking wickets regularly
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar continues to be reliable
- Rasikh Salam Dar impressed in the match against Mumbai Indians
- Suyash Sharma has shown improvement compared to last season
Overall, RCB look strong in both batting and bowling.
Josh Hazlewood Fitness Update
Josh Hazlewood’s availability is still not clear.
He played against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 and picked up 2 wickets. However, he missed the next match against Mumbai Indians. The team has not given a clear reason.
There are two possible reasons:
- He may have a minor injury
- The team may be managing his workload
His availability will be important because he adds control and experience to the bowling attack.
Also See : Sanju Samson Wins ICC Player of the Month March 2026, Beats Jasprit Bumrah
Predicted RCB Playing XI vs LSG
Here is the expected RCB lineup for the match:
| No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli | Opener |
| 2 | Phil Salt | Opener |
| 3 | Devdutt Padikkal | Top-order batter |
| 4 | Rajat Patidar (c) | Middle-order |
| 5 | Tim David | Finisher |
| 6 | Jitesh Sharma (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| 7 | Romario Shepherd | All-rounder |
| 8 | Krunal Pandya | All-rounder |
| 9 | Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Fast bowler |
| 10 | Jacob Duffy | Fast bowler |
| 11 | Rasikh Salam Dar | Fast bowler |
Impact Player
- Suyash Sharma (leg spinner)
What About Hazlewood’s Spot?
If Hazlewood is fit, he could replace Jacob Duffy in the playing XI.
Duffy has taken 6 wickets in 3 matches and has been useful, especially in the powerplay. However, he has been slightly expensive at times.
Hazlewood offers:
- Better control
- More experience
- Strong performance in big matches
So, if available, he is likely to come straight into the team.
Final Thoughts
RCB look strong going into this match, especially at home. Their batting is in form, and the bowling unit is doing well.
The only big question is Hazlewood’s fitness. If he plays, RCB’s bowling attack becomes even stronger. If not, the current combination still has enough depth to challenge LSG.
RCB will look to continue their good form and take advantage of home conditions in Bengaluru.
