RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood returns to playing XI amid Guwahati rain, who is missing?
Josh Hazlewood returned to RCB’s XI, boosting their pace attack against RR in a rain-hit Guwahati clash. The toss was delayed, briefly held, then interrupted again by rain. Riyan Parag chose to field, while Rajat Patidar backed Hazlewood’s experience.
Both teams remain in strong form, setting up a tight contest.
NEW DELHI: Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood’s return to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru playing XI after an injury lay-off comes as a major boost to their pace attack. Rain played a part ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati, delaying the toss as covers came on due to a passing drizzle. However, conditions improved later, allowing play to resume with a delayed start.
The toss was pushed to 8:00 PM IST, with the match beginning at 8:15 PM, which, however, did come to fruition after rain returned immediately after the toss. Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag won the toss and opted to field, citing moisture on the pitch after recent rain. RCB captain Rajat Patidar confirmed a key change, bringing back experienced pacer Josh Hazlewood in 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,” he said at the toss.