• Source:JND
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RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag on Friday won the toss and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Barsapara stadium in Assam's Guwahati.  

Earlier, the toss was delayed due to rain. The weather forecast was better before the start of the game, but the rain, which started with a slight drizzle, intensified as on-field umpires had to call for the covers. 

Meanwhile, in a big boost to RCB, Australian pacer Josh Hazelwood has returned to the playing 11, replacing Jacob Duffy. Rajasthan Royals have also introduced one change in the team, replacing Tushar Deshpande with Brijesh Sharma.

RR vs RCB, IPL 2026: Captain's Quotes

Riyan Parag said the pitch was expected to be dry, but rain could leave early moisture, while stressing that his side has been clinical and focused on playing strategic cricket as planned before the tournament. Parag also noted he is content having less to do personally as long as the openers continue their strong form at the top.

"We are going to be bowling first. It was supposed to be a dry wicket, but it has been raining, and there will be some moisture on this pitch. We would like to extract the most from the pitch," said RR captain Parag.

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Rajat Patidar said the strong crowd support is making it feel like a home game for his side, while confirming that Duffy has missed out with Josh Hazlewood coming into the lineup, describing him as an experienced addition. However, just as he spoke, rain returned to interrupt proceedings, halting momentum after it seemed the weather had cleared.

"This is the first away game. Thanks to everyone. You are making us feel that it is a home crowd. We all love you. Unfortunately, Duffy misses out on this game. Josh Hazlewood is in the team in place of Duffy. Duffy also bowled brilliantly in the last two games. We know Josh is an experienced player. His presence will definitely put us in a good frame of mind," said RCB captain Patidar.

RR vs RCB Playing 11:

Rajasthan Royals:Riyan Parag (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma.

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Josh Hazlewood.


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