RCB Predicted XI vs SRH IPL 2026 | Duffy Replaces Hazlewood, Iyer at No.3

IPL 2026: RCB Predicted XI vs SRH – Big Calls as Hazlewood Misses Opener

Match Summary

Match: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Sunrisers Hyderabad
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Date: March 28, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM IST

Short Scorecard (Predicted XI Snapshot)

Openers: Phil Salt, Virat Kohli
Middle Order: Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma
Finishers: Tim David, Krunal Pandya
Bowling: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Jacob Duffy

RCB Face Early Selection Challenge in Season Opener

Royal Challengers Bengaluru begin their IPL 2026 title defence with a crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, but team selection has already thrown up key questions.

The biggest concern is the absence of Josh Hazlewood, who is expected to miss the initial matches despite joining the squad. His unavailability forces RCB to reshuffle their bowling attack for the opener.

Jacob Duffy Set to Step In

New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy is likely to replace Hazlewood in the playing XI. His inclusion brings fresh pace options, though he lacks IPL experience compared to the Australian star.

This change could test RCB’s bowling depth early in the tournament, especially against SRH’s explosive batting lineup.

Top Order Relies on Kohli and Salt

The opening combination of Virat Kohli and Phil Salt will once again be crucial for RCB.

Kohli remains the backbone of the batting lineup, while Salt’s aggressive approach can provide quick starts in the powerplay a key factor at the batting-friendly Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Venkatesh Iyer’s Role at No.3

One of the biggest tactical decisions is the inclusion of Venkatesh Iyer at number three. The ₹7 crore signing is expected to play a key role in stabilizing the innings while maintaining scoring momentum.

Captain Rajat Patidar is likely to follow at number four, ensuring balance in the middle order.

Middle Order Firepower Remains Intact

RCB’s middle order looks strong with Jitesh Sharma and Tim David providing finishing strength.

All-rounders Krunal Pandya and Romario Shepherd add depth, allowing RCB to bat deep while contributing with the ball.

Bowling Unit: Experience Meets Opportunity

With Hazlewood absent, the bowling attack will depend heavily on Bhuvneshwar Kumar and spinner Suyash Sharma.

Young pacer Mangesh Yadav is likely to be used as an impact player, offering flexibility depending on match conditions.

Predicted Playing XI – RCB

Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Jacob Duffy

Impact Player: Mangesh Yadav

Conclusion: Balanced XI with Minor Adjustments

RCB still field a strong and balanced XI despite missing a key bowler. Their batting depth remains a major strength, but the bowling unit will need to step up against a dangerous SRH side.

The IPL 2026 opener will test RCB’s squad depth and adaptability right from the start.

RCB face SRH in IPL 2026 opener with a few key changes.
Jacob Duffy is likely to replace Josh Hazlewood.
Venkatesh Iyer is expected to bat at number three.
RCB’s strong batting lineup remains their biggest advantage.