IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru's strongest predicted XI against Lucknow Super Giants (Photo Source: IPL)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be aiming to continue their momentum as they take on Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 23 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at their home ground Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru  on April 15.

With crucial points at stake, both teams are expected to field their strongest possible combinations in what promises to be an exciting contest. The defending IPL champions have shown flashes of brilliance this season but will be keen to find consistency, especially in their playing XI. They are at the third position in the points table, having won three of their four matches.

On the other hand, LSG are a struggling unit, having won two matches, while losing the other two in their four matches. With team combinations, pitch conditions, and recent performances playing a key role, let's have a look at RCB’s predicted XI for this crucial clash against LSG. 

Here's RCB's predicted Playing XI vs LSG in Match 23, IPL 2026 Top-order: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (C)

This top-order of Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, and Rajat Patidar remains the core of RCB’s batting line-up. Kohli and Salt had an outstanding 120-run partnership against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, and would want to replicate the same form in this crucial clash against LSG.

Kohli is in top-form, but will need to pace up after a sluggish innings in the previous game. Phil Salt, on the other hand, was sensational against MI, providing RCB a flying start. Salt will again have the responsibility of giving RCB a fast start. Devdutt Padikkal or captain Rajat Patidar will come in at number 3, depending upon the match situation. Patidar has been terrific in the middle-overs, especially against spin bowlers.

Middle-order: Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd

Australia’s Tim David has been single-handedly carrying this RCB middle-order so far in IPL 2026. David is being used as a designated finisher by the defending champions, and he has played some fine knocks, including a stunning 25-ball 70 run knock against CSK. 

He will be accompanied by wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, who is yet to make a mark with the bat in IPL 2026. Krunal Pandya and Romario Shepherd add immense value with their all-round abilities.

Bowlers: Mangesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Suyash Sharma Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Photo Source: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar headlines RCB's bowling attack. The right-arm pacer has been decent so far in IPL 2026, picking up four wickets for his side. He forms a deadly duo with Jacob Duffywith the new ball. Duffy will retain his place ahead of Josh Hazlewood in the playing XI. 

Suyash Sharma will provide spin option for Rajat Paridar with his presence. He has ample experience of bowling at the Chinnaswamy that can be helpful to him. Mangesh Yadav will give the left-arm pace option. 

RCB's predicted playing XI for match 23, IPL 2026

Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (C), Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Romario Shepherd, Mangesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Suyash Sharma

Impact Player: Devdutt Padikkal