RCB Faces GT in IPL 2026 Showdown at M Chinnaswamy Stadium

Match Overview

On Friday, April 24, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to clash with the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 34th match of IPL 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. RCB won the toss and chose to bowl first. Unfortunately, they will be missing their key opener, Phil Salt, due to injury. During the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar informed Harsha Bhogle that Salt's injury details were not disclosed. He expressed confidence in the decision to bowl first, stating, "Chasing often provides clarity regarding the score and total." He also mentioned a change in the lineup, with Bethell replacing the injured Salt. Patidar noted the importance of assessing the pitch conditions, indicating that while the ground typically favors batting, the lack of grass might make the first innings challenging.

Phil Salt has made a significant impact this season, accumulating 202 runs in six matches with an impressive strike rate of 168.33, including 11 sixes and two half-centuries.

Gujarat Titans Adjust Their Lineup

GT Make Two Changes

The Gujarat Titans have also made two adjustments to their playing XI, introducing Jason Holder and Manav Suthar. Holder, who was acquired for a substantial Rs 7 crore, is making his debut for the team. GT captain Shubman Gill commented on the toss, noting that teams chasing on this ground have historically performed well, but he believes the pitch appears balanced. He emphasized the importance of assessing conditions early and capitalizing on a strong powerplay to build momentum.

Gill acknowledged the challenges faced in previous matches and stressed the need for the team to focus on strategies that yield success. He confirmed the inclusion of Holder and Suthar in the lineup.

Currently, RCB holds the third position in the IPL 2026 points table, and a victory against GT could elevate them to second place, as both teams have four wins and eight points. GT, however, is positioned seventh in the standings.

Here are the playing XIs for both teams:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (Captain), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar

Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (Captain), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj