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RCB vs LSG Highlight, IPL 2026: Virat Kohli shines as impact player; Royal Challengers Bengaluru thrash Lucknow Super Giants by 5 wickets

THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 16, 2026, 07:01:23 IST

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RCB vs LSG Highlight, IPL 2026: Virat Kohli shines as impact player; Royal Challengers Bengaluru thrash Lucknow Super Giants by 5 wickets

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: Impact player Virat Kohli top-scored with 49 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased down 147 in 15.1 overs, losing five wickets against Lucknow Super Giants in Match 23 of IPL 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. The win took RCB back to the top of the table with eight points from five games.

IPL 2026: Points Table | Schedule

Chasing a modest target, RCB began slowly with just six runs in the first over before Phil Salt was bowled for 7 by Prince Yadav. Kohli then took control, breaking free with three boundaries off Mohammed Shami and continuing his assault with four more off Prince Yadav. His 40 off 20 balls powered RCB to 60/1 at the end of the powerplay.

LSG, led by Nicholas Pooran in the absence of injured captain Rishabh Pant, struggled to contain the flow despite an early breakthrough from Avesh Khan. Kohli fell agonisingly short of a fifty, dismissed for 49 in the 13th over.

Late fireworks from Jitesh Sharma and Rajat Patidar ensured the chase stayed on track, with both batters striking quick runs before falling. Tim David and Romario Shepherd finished the job with unbeaten cameos as RCB sealed victory with 29 balls to spare.

Earlier, LSG were restricted to 146 despite useful knocks from Mitchell Marsh and Mukul Choudhary, as RCB’s bowlers shared the wickets.

19:13 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: Impact substitutes

Lucknow Super Giants Impact Subs: Manimaran Siddharth, George Linde, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Mayank Yadav

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Impact subs: Virat Kohli, Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, Mangesh Yadav

19:08 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live: RCB vs LSG Playing XIs

Lucknow Super Giants: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar

19:07 (IST) Apr 15

LSG vs RCB Live Score: LSG skipper Rishabh Pant at the toss

"We're pretty confident, [it's a] good batting pitch. Regardless of whether we bat first or second, we need to do well. We don't want too much introspection; put trust in your team and do well. There are a lot of leaders in the group, so go out and perform well. Same team for us."

19:01 (IST) Apr 15

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: TOSS TIME!

Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper Rajat Patidar wins the toss, opts to bowl against Lucknow Super Giants in Bengaluru.

"We will bowl first. It's pretty obvious: good surface, bowl first , take the advantage and put them under pressure. No grass on this pitch, looks good. Everyone is doing good for the team - coming at different stages and performing. One change - Hazlewood replaces Duffy," RCB skipper Rajat Patidar after winning the toss

18:59 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: RCB opener Phil Salt ahead of the match

"(License to bat freely for all the RCB batters?) Yeah, I think it has to be. That's the way that T20 cricket is going and the IPL is definitely going. Everyone has got that licence to take the game on, I suppose. (Batting more off-stump than middle-stump?) I wouldn't say so, no. No, I'd say probably look a bit closer at that if I've changed anything, but I think it's the same. (On hitting a lot of runs behind square this season) As time goes on and people play more and more against you, plans obviously change and evolve and that's part and parcel of it. It probably says something on where they're bowling, but a lot of my game is built on having a good foundation and a good, solid defensive technique more than anything else first up, and then hitting the ball where it's supposed to go. I don't get too carried away with that sort of thing. I just set up the best I can, have their plans in the back of my mind and react to them accordingly. (On his catches by the boundary) Richard Halsall, the fielding coach here, is unbelievable. We don't stand out here for hours, but if you do catch 20 balls, it's high intensity. It's a big part of any batter's game these days. If you're not bowling and if I've not got the gloves, I want to give as much as I can to the team in any area I can. So, yeah, we work hard on it, but I'd be lying if I said I was out here for seven hours doing it."

18:42 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live: Four LSG pacers mark their run-up

Prince Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan have all gone through their run-up drills for Lucknow Super Giants.

Meanwhile, RCB star Virat Kohli appears fit and in good rhythm, getting through a few throwdowns before breaking into sprints.

18:39 (IST) Apr 15

LSG vs RCB Live Score: Pitch Report

"Righto, it's time to have a look at the playing conditions at this cauldron that is the Chinnaswamy. Let's start off, it's six-city this. Let's start off with the dimensions. 61m square and 68m square, so there's a shepherding that must go on. You know which side you'd rather be hitting to or not being hit to, as the case may be. Straight at 74m, but it is small. 55 sixes already here. It is an unbelievable wicket to come and bat here as an opening batter, but there sometimes is nice bounce and swing for the new ball. Getting through the new ball, it becomes nice for the batters. But looking at the surface today, it's a touch drier than it normally is. Normally when you get here, you see that little bit of green grass just standing up. Today it looks a touch barer and less grass. I think not as much bounce and there's been a little bit of seam movement up front, so I think not as much. Spin generally doesn't play a massive role here in terms of wickets taken, but it's the Krunal Pandyas that are good with their lengths, that bowls at the top of the stump, very effective. Still a very good pitch. I still think a very good score, but not as much as the other ones. Bat second and chase down? 100%. I'm going with 220. It's still above the 200. Nice and good one, this one, for more sixes." -- Mpumelelo Mbangwa and Faf du Plessis

18:31 (IST) Apr 15

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: Chinnaswamy challenge awaits LSG bowlers

McClenaghan also warned that Bengaluru’s conditions will pose a stern test for LSG’s bowling attack.

While the unit, led by Mohammed Shami and supported by Prince Yadav, has shown promise, the Chinnaswamy surface presents a completely different challenge.

The former pacer noted that the flat pitch and short boundaries often turn matches into high-scoring contests, leaving little margin for error. He stressed that LSG bowlers will need to be precise and disciplined to contain RCB’s explosive batting line-up.

With both teams possessing significant firepower, McClenaghan expects a demanding outing for the bowlers, where even small lapses could prove costly in a potentially high-scoring encounter.

18:20 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: Pooran backed to deliver big on batting paradise

Former New Zealand pacer Mitchell McClenaghan believes Nicholas Pooran is primed for a turnaround performance as Lucknow Super Giants prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026.

Despite a slow start to the season, with a highest score of just 19, Pooran remains central to LSG’s batting plans. McClenaghan pointed out that the conditions at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium — known for its flat pitch and short boundaries — could play perfectly into the left-hander’s aggressive style. He emphasised that while LSG have a well-balanced batting unit, Pooran’s ability to counterattack and shift momentum makes him a key figure.

With RCB entering the contest high on confidence, McClenaghan expects Pooran to rise to the occasion and deliver a statement innings.

18:04 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live: Learning from legends, eyeing bigger impact

Being part of an experienced bowling unit has further aided Rasikh’s growth. Sharing the dressing room with seasoned names like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood and Krunal Pandya, the youngster is keen to absorb knowledge and contribute consistently. He acknowledged Hazlewood’s stature, calling him a “big legend” and an integral part of the side, while reiterating his own intent to help the team in any capacity.

As RCB aim to climb to the top of the standings with a win, they also carry a strong record against LSG, having won four of their six encounters, including a comfortable victory in their last meeting. With confidence high and conditions favouring their style, RCB will once again look to their balanced unit — including emerging contributors like Rasikh — to maintain their dominance.

17:51 (IST) Apr 15

LSG vs RCB Live Score: Rasikh Salam seizes opportunity in RCB’s winning run

Rasikh Salam Dar expressed satisfaction after playing his part in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s recent success, as they prepare to host Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. The young pacer was one of the positives from the previous outing, returning figures of 1/23 in a convincing win over Mumbai Indians.

With RCB sitting third on the points table and boasting the best net run-rate in the competition, the momentum is firmly with the defending champions.

Rasikh highlighted the clarity within the squad, noting that the team understands its roles well and is confident heading into a crucial home stretch of three matches. Reflecting on his return after a gap, he said the preparation over the past year has been geared towards match scenarios, allowing him to focus on executing his plans effectively when given the opportunity.

17:36 (IST) Apr 15

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: Injury boost and RCB’s young spark

LSG also received encouraging news on the fitness front, with express pacer Mayank Yadav nearing full readiness after careful workload management, while Mohsin Khan is close to selection pending a final fitness test.

Moody credited the medical staff for their efforts in bringing key bowlers back into contention. Meanwhile, on the opposition side, Rasikh Salam Dar has spoken about making the most of his opportunities with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

The young pacer highlighted the importance of preparation and learning from senior pros like Josh Hazlewood, underlining his intent to contribute consistently whenever called upon.

17:20 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: Backing Pooran despite lean patch

While Shami has delivered with the ball, Nicholas Pooran has endured a slow start with the bat, managing just 41 runs in four matches at a modest strike-rate.

However, Moody dismissed concerns, expressing complete faith in the explosive batter’s ability to bounce back.

Emphasising that “class is permanent,” he suggested that the right conditions could help Pooran rediscover his rhythm.

With a favourable batting surface expected, Moody believes the West Indian could soon produce the kind of counter-attacking innings he is known for.

17:05 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live: Powerplay threat and enduring excellence

Moody highlighted Shami’s ability to swing the new ball both ways as a key weapon, particularly in the powerplay.

Fresh off a strong domestic season, the experienced quick has looked fit, sharp, and consistent, operating at speeds in the high 130s. His durability and control have allowed LSG to maintain pressure early in innings, often setting the tone for the rest of the bowling unit.

According to Moody, it is this blend of skill, experience, and physical condition that continues to make Shami one of the most reliable fast bowlers in the league despite being out of favour in the national setup.

17:04 (IST) Apr 15

LSG vs RCB Live Score: Shami’s impact goes beyond numbers

Mohammed Shami has once again underlined his value in IPL 2026, not just through performances but through his influence within the group, according to Tom Moody.

Representing Lucknow Super Giants, the veteran pacer has picked up four wickets in four matches, but it is his impressive economy rate of 6.2 that stands out in a format dominated by aggressive batting.

Moody stressed that Shami’s contribution extends far beyond figures, calling him the “head figure” of the bowling attack and someone who brings invaluable wisdom and leadership qualities to the side.

16:37 (IST) Apr 15

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: SQUADS!

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Tim David, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, Josh Hazlewood, Nuwan Thushara, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jordan Cox, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, Swapnil Singh, Jacob Duffy, Kanishk Chouhan, Abhinandan Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Phil Salt, Satvik Deswal, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra.

Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant (c), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan.

16:36 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: Batting woes hold LSG back

Despite flashes of brilliance with the ball, LSG’s campaign has been derailed by an underperforming batting unit.

Led by Rishabh Pant, the line-up has struggled to find rhythm, with the skipper himself managing just 103 runs in four matches at a strike-rate of 130. Established names like Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran have failed to make significant contributions, while younger players such as Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad have not delivered consistently either.

Mukul Choudhary has shown glimpses of promise, but LSG need sustained performances across the order. With RCB’s bowlers also searching for consistency — including the returning Josh Hazlewood and experienced names like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya — this contest could offer LSG’s batters an opportunity to rediscover form, provided they can withstand the early pressure.

16:36 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live: LSG bowling faces stern examination

For LSG, the challenge will be whether their bowling unit can withstand RCB’s relentless batting on a typically batting-friendly Chinnaswamy surface.

The attack, led by Mohammed Shami, alongside Prince Yadav and Digvesh Rathi, has been one of their brighter aspects this season. Shami’s economy rate of 6.2 stands out as the best among regular bowlers, reflecting his control and experience. However, against an RCB line-up that thrives on punishing even the slightest error, consistency in every delivery will be crucial.

One loose over could undo several tight ones, and LSG’s bowlers will need near-perfect execution to keep the hosts in check in what promises to be another high-scoring encounter.

16:35 (IST) Apr 15

LSG vs RCB Live Score: Kohli fitness boost and crucial home stretch

There was a moment of concern for RCB when Kohli walked off with an ankle niggle during their previous clash against Mumbai Indians. However, the star batter’s return to the nets with a strapped ankle has eased fears over his availability. His presence remains central to RCB’s plans, not just for his runs but also for the stability he provides at the top.

The team will be keen to capitalize on a favourable home stretch, with upcoming fixtures against Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans following the LSG clash. Building momentum at home could prove decisive before they head to Raipur for two designated ‘home’ games, making this phase of the tournament particularly critical for their playoff ambitions.

16:34 (IST) Apr 15

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: Fearless firepower across the top order

The numbers behind RCB’s dominance underline their ruthless intent.

Virat Kohli (162 strike-rate), Phil Salt (178), Rajat Patidar (214), Tim David (221) and Devdutt Padikkal (201) have collectively turned batting into an all-out assault in IPL 2026. The quintet has hammered 52 sixes in just four matches — the highest by any team this season — redefining range-hitting standards.

More impressively, RCB have not posted a total below 200 so far, highlighting a clear and consistent batting philosophy built on sustained aggression. Their approach has resembled a battering ram, with each player seamlessly maintaining the tempo regardless of match situation, leaving opposition bowlers with little room to recover once the onslaught begins.

16:33 (IST) Apr 15

IPL Live Score 2026: RCB’s batting blitz sets the tone

Hello and welcome to the live coverage of the IPL 2026 match between RCB and LSG in Bengaluru.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will once again bank on their explosive batting unit as they prepare to take on Lucknow Super Giants in a crucial mid-table clash today.

With six points from four games, RCB sit third on the table, but the margins remain razor-thin, with four teams breathing down their neck with four points each. The Bengaluru side trails Rajasthan Royals by two points and Punjab Kings by one, making this fixture pivotal in breaking away from the congested standings.

However, beyond the points table, it is RCB’s intimidating approach with the bat that has set them apart. No other side in the tournament has matched their sheer aggression and consistency, turning every outing into a high-scoring spectacle and forcing opponents onto the defensive from the outset.

RCB vs LSG Live Score, IPL 2026: Impact player Virat Kohli starred with a fluent 49 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased down 147 against Lucknow Super Giants in 15.1 overs with five wickets down in Match 23 of IPL 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. The victory pushed RCB back to the top of the points table with eight points from five matches.

IPL 2026: Points Table | Schedule

RCB’s chase began cautiously, managing only six runs in the opening over before Phil Salt was bowled for 7 by Prince Yadav. However, Kohli quickly shifted gears, dismantling Mohammed Shami with three consecutive boundaries and then punishing Prince Yadav with four more in a dominant counterattack. His blistering 40 off 20 deliveries ensured RCB raced to 60/1 at the end of the powerplay.

With injured skipper Rishabh Pant unavailable, Nicholas Pooran led Lucknow Super Giants on the field, but his bowling unit struggled to contain Kohli’s momentum. Avesh Khan provided the breakthrough by dismissing Devdutt Padikkal, but Kohli remained in control until falling for 49 in the 13th over, missing a well-deserved half-century by a single run.

The middle order then capitalised on the platform, with Jitesh Sharma and Rajat Patidar accelerating the scoring through a flurry of boundaries. Both batters fell in quick succession to Prince Yadav, who finished with three wickets, but the chase was already well in hand.

Tim David and Romario Shepherd calmly guided RCB home with unbeaten knocks, sealing the win with 29 balls remaining.

Earlier, LSG posted 146 after a shaky start, with Mitchell Marsh and Mukul Choudhary offering resistance, but RCB’s disciplined bowling ensured regular breakthroughs and complete control throughout the innings.