IPL 2026: RCB Faces Tough Challenge Against SRH in Season Opener

The IPL 2026 season begins with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad. Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin raises concerns about RCB's chances due to key player absences, particularly Josh Hazlewood. With a history of SRH outperforming RCB in recent matches, Ashwin predicts a tough start for the defending champions. The article delves into RCB's bowling challenges and the potential impact on their title defense. Will RCB manage to find their rhythm, or will SRH continue their dominance? Read on for a detailed analysis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 28, 2026, 17:38 IST

RCB's Title Defense Begins Against SRH

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to kick off with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defending their title against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) this Saturday. Fans are expecting a thrilling match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared some concerns regarding RCB's chances, particularly due to the absence of Josh Hazlewood. He believes this could give SRH an edge in the match.

Ashwin noted that SRH has had a favorable record against RCB in their recent encounters, suggesting that the reigning champions might struggle in their opening game. He mentioned on his YouTube channel, "SRH has often outperformed RCB lately, and I anticipate this trend will continue, especially since RCB will be without Hazlewood. Last year in Lucknow, Hazlewood was also missing, if I recall correctly."

Although Hazlewood is in India, he is awaiting clearance from Cricket Australia, which means he will miss the season opener and possibly the initial matches. RCB's title defense is further complicated by the absence of Nuwan Thushara for the entire IPL season, and Yash Dayal has also been ruled out.

Ashwin elaborated on the challenges RCB faces in their first match against SRH, expressing doubts about their ability to perform under pressure. He stated, "I predict a tough match for RCB, but they will eventually find their rhythm. However, I believe SRH will dominate once again, given their recent success against RCB."

RCB's bowling lineup will likely feature Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Raseekh Salam, and Mangesh Yadav, all of whom are Indian pacers. Ashwin also pointed out a critical weakness in RCB's death-over bowling, raising concerns about their effectiveness in limiting runs during high-pressure situations. He remarked, "Besides Bhuvneshwar Kumar, RCB lacks the depth to control runs in the final overs. Historically, RCB struggles in death overs, making it nearly impossible to stop runs if wickets are in hand."