The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take on the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

RCB enter the contest as defending champions, having clinched the 2025 title with a victory over the Punjab Kings in the final. Their remarkable campaign last season was highlighted by winning all their away matches, a feat that showcased their adaptability across conditions and played a crucial role in their journey to the playoffs.

Heading into the new season, they will look to carry forward that momentum, with key players such as Virat Kohli, Krunal Pandya, Rajat Patidar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Tim David expected to play pivotal roles as they aim to defend their crown and secure a second IPL title.

On the other hand, SRH head into the clash with a slightly weakened bowling unit due to the absence of Pat Cummins. Led by Ishan Kishan, and backed by experienced players like Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Harshal Patel, SRH will be eager to make a strong start. The franchise previously lifted the IPL trophy in 2016 under David Warner and finished runners-up in 2024, losing to the Kolkata Knight Riders.

As the 19th edition of the tournament begins, both teams will aim to build momentum early, knowing a strong start can set the tone for a successful campaign and a potential title run.

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• Jitesh Sharma: Need 9 runs to reach 1000 runs in IPL
• Krunal Pandya: Need 7 wickets to reach 100 wickets in IPL
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Need 2 wickets to reach 200 wickets in IPL

• Ishan Kishan: Need 2 runs to reach 3000 runs in IPL
• Heinrich Klaasen: Need 20 runs to reach 1500 runs in IPL
• Heinrich Klaasenn: Need 11 sixes to reach 100 sixes in IPL