RR vs RCB Toss & Playing XI: Rajasthan Wins First Ball in IPL 2026 Clash

A Thrilling Conclusion to the Season

The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Assam is preparing for its final match of the season, and it promises to be an unforgettable encounter. The highly anticipated “Battle of Royals” sees the winner of the first IPL, Rajasthan Royals, face off against the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This Friday night showdown is set to deliver a thrilling contest that fans will not want to miss.

Rajasthan Royals, led by Riyan Parag, are currently at the top of the table with three consecutive wins, showcasing their strong form throughout the season. On the other hand, Rajat Patidar’s RCB have also performed exceptionally well, winning both of their matches so far and aiming for a hat-trick. With both teams boasting explosive batters and quality bowlers, the game is expected to be a high-octane affair.

Toss and Team Strategies

At the toss, Rajasthan Royals emerged victorious and opted to bowl first. Both captains shared their thoughts on the upcoming match, highlighting their strategies and team dynamics.

Riyan Parag’s Comments

Parag expressed confidence in the team’s approach, stating, “We’re going to be bowling. It was supposed to be a dry wicket, but it has been raining for the last couple of days and rained a bit today as well. So there’s going to be a little moisture. We’re trying to extract it, but seems like a really good wicket. Feels great.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strategic and smart approach, saying, “I think we’ve been very clinical before the start of the tournament. My message to the team was that we want to be a really pure team that plays really strategic cricket, really smart cricket.”

Parag also mentioned the changes in the lineup, stating, “Tushar takes a rest and Brijesh comes in. I think it’s a fresh start. I told them when we won against Mumbai, as soon as the sun came up, it was past. And we need to forget about that.”

He concluded with a positive outlook, saying, “If we don’t, we lose two points and we don’t want to do that. I mean, as long as they keep on going, I’m happy. I’m happy with this batting. I’m happy with this whole. So yeah, hopefully they keep on going.”

Rajat Patidar’s Comments

Patidar acknowledged the significance of the match, stating, “This is our first away game.” He expressed gratitude to the crowd, adding, “Thanks to everyone. I think you are making us feel that it’s already our home ground. So we all love you.”

He also mentioned the absence of Duffy, who is replaced by Josh Hazlewood. Patidar said, “Unfortunately, Duffy misses out in this game. Josh in the place of Duffy. Duffy also bowled brilliantly in the last game. But everyone knows Josh is an experienced player, specialist. But I think his presence will definitely put us in a good frame of mind, I think.”

Key Players to Watch

Fans can look forward to several key player battles in the match. Notably, Virat Kohli will face off against Sandeep Sharma, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game.