A high stakes ‘battle royale’, table toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) will play defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 10, 2026 at the Bursapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Both teams head into the Match 16 with their unbeaten streaks on the line, with RR boasting a perfect 3-0 record, while RCB trail by 2-0.Here are five key player battles that could shape tonight’s contest:
Virat Kohli vs Sandeep Shy
The fight between Virat Kohli And Sandeep Sharma is one of the most one-sided individual rivalries in IPL history. In 18 matches, Sandeep dismissed Kohli seven times, restricting him to just 132 runs. This makes him one of the few bowlers who have been able to dominate the RCB stalwart.
Web Suryavanshi v. Bhubaneswar Kumar
A classic youth versus experience battle, teenage sensation Vabhu Suryavanshi has impressed with fearless strokeplay this season. However, Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s swing and experience make him a formidable challenge. In their 2025 meeting, Suryavanshi hit two sixes before Bhuvneshwar had the last laugh, with the veteran bowling him out for 16.
Ravi Bishnoi Vs Rajat Patidar
The battle between Bishnoi and Patidar in the middle overs could prove decisive. Historically, Patidar has held the upper hand, notably during the 2022 IPL eliminator when Bishnoi scored 26 runs in an over. Containing Patidar will be crucial for RR and the focus will be on Purple Cup holder Bishnoi.
Phil Salt vs. Jofra Archer
A powerplay duel between Salt and Archer promises fireworks. Salt has historically been able to counter Archer’s pace, notably “taking down Archer’s leg-side trap” during the 2025 encounter where he scored a crucial 65 runs. In 2025, Salt scored 51 of his 65 runs on the leg side, specifically to counter Archer’s strategic “leg side”.
Yeshsavi Jaiswal Vs Jacob Duffy
The powerplay battle between Yashaswi Jaiswal (RR) and Jacob Duffy (RCB) is a high-stakes contest between the current Orange Cap holder and one of the standout debutants of the season. This is his first professional encounter in IPL. Duffy’s main task at the Burspara Cricket Stadium tonight will be to contain Jaiswal’s early attack.
