Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will play Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 23 of IPL 2026 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 15. This match promises to be a clash of contrasting strengths. It pits the tournament’s most explosive batting unit against its most economical bowling attack.
RCB are currently third, boosted by their recent high-scoring victory over Mumbai Indians. LSG are seventh and aiming to recover from a defeat to Gujarat Titans.
Kohli vs Shami: A Headline Contest
The headline contest will be in the powerplay, between Kohli and Shami. Shami has dismissed Kohli five times in 12 IPL innings. He has kept Kohli relatively contained with an economy of 8.33. Kohli, though, has scored 107 runs at a strike rate of 138.96.
Pant vs Bhuvneshwar: A History of Domination
Pant has a strong record against Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He has scored 120 runs off just 54 balls at a strike rate of 222.22. Famously, he once smashed 26 runs in a single over (4, 4, 6, 6, 6) during his 128* knock in 2018. Bhuvneshwar has dismissed him only once, and Pant’s aggressive intent could once again tilt the balance.
Salt vs Prince: Powerplay Showdown
It’s expected to be a classic powerplay showdown between Salt and Prince. Salt has already powered RCB to multiple 200+ totals this season. Prince will look to use variations in pace to restrict Salt’s scoring during the mandatory powerplay. Expect fireworks early on.
Pooran vs Krunal: Former Teammates Face Off
Pooran will aim to rediscover his form against Krunal’s spin. Pooran has struggled this season with a strike rate of just 85, the lowest among qualified batters. Krunal has dismissed Pooran once in their five IPL meetings. His ability to keep things tight in the middle overs will be crucial.
Hazlewood vs Markram: Tactical Battle
Josh Hazlewood has had the edge over Aiden Markram, dismissing him twice in five T20 encounters. Markram scores at a healthy strike rate of 144 against him. This is a crucial tactical battle in the powerplay.
RCB head into the contest having crossed the 200-run mark in every match this season. In contrast, LSG’s bowling unit has not conceded a single 200-plus total so far.