Cricket Scorecard

We are back with RCB's reply! The two umpires make their way out to the middle and are followed by the new opening pair for RCB - Jacob Bethell, on his IPL debut, along with Virat Kohli. 

... THE RUN CHASE ...

Josh Hazlewood is up for a quick chat. He first wears the Purple Cap as he now becomes the leading wicket-taker in the season with 18 wickets in 10 matches. He says he has enjoyed it and thinks he has only gotten better every game. Says Tristan Stubbs batted really well in the end on a tough pitch. On the wicket, he highlights that it is a tough wicket to read. Says the environment in the team is really nice and things are turning up nicely. Says it is just about following the process and exec

Right then, 163 is the score that RCB need to get the win and move up to 14 points, which will take them clear at the top of the table and it shouldn't be too difficult with their current form. However, DC also have the same incentive if they win, so they won't make it easy for RCB, who are still unbeaten away from home. A fascinating chase is up next.

The lowest total for Delhi Capitals this season while setting a total and they will be pleased in the end to have breached the 160-run mark. Abishek Porel started off in style but fell quite early and KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis had to do the rebuild work. Faf couldn't kick on after a slow start and Rahul also ended up giving his wicket away at a crucial juncture. Skipper, Axar Patel got away a couple of boundaries but it was Tristan Stubbs who was the difference maker between a total of a

Rajat Patidar had no hesitation in bowling first on a track that seemed a bit two-paced to begin with. After a couple of overs, it was clear that there was some uneven bounce and some balls were skidding through, whereas some were holding in the deck. RCB got a couple of wickets in the Powerplay, which helped, but it was the spinners in the middle phase who really suffocated the opposition batters. Josh Hazlewood picked up an early wicket and then came back in to break a brewing stand, but both

A late, late flourish from the Capitals, but Royal Challengers Bengaluru will feel they have done enough to be ahead at the interval. The score does look under par, but with the pitch playing a bit different, is it a defendable one or did the Capitals leave it too late? Only time will tell.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Dushmantha Chameera, Bhuvneshwar Kumar sees the batter moving a bit to the off side, and smartly bowls it further away from the batter, just outside the tramline. Dushmantha Chameera swings for the hills but misses. The umpire doesn't signal for a wide and a review is taken.

Dushmantha Chameera is the next batter in.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! IN THE AIR AND GONE! CAUGHT! Bhuvneshwar Kumar showing his class again, as he snags the third wicket!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! Cracking shot!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, No run.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! RUN OUT! 

Mitchell Starc is in next.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Vipraj Nigam, A slower ball, on a fullish bit of length, and just outside off. Nigam shuffles across off and gets down on a knee for the swipe across, but misses. The ball ricochets off his thigh pad, and rolls into the leg side, behind square and the batters take a leg bye.

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, MISFIELD, ! An attempted yorker, slower too, right at the stumps, Stubbs stands in a wide stance to and drills straight down the ground to the right of long on. The fielder slides and gets his hands on the ball, but ends up deflecting it to the ropes. 

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, A good response by Dayal! Cannons in a yorker, just outside off, Tristan Stubbs doesn't manage to carve it out to the off side.

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, ! Audacious! An attempted yorker, on the stumps, Tristan Stubbs switches his stance and reverse ramps it over short third, all the way for a six. With this, the 150 is up for Delhi Capitals!

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, Four!

Yash Dayal to Vipraj Nigam, 1 run.

Yash Dayal to Vipraj Nigam, A comedy of errors, first in the running and then in the field.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, Hazlewood replies with a toe-crushing yorker, with a hint of reverse, on the leg stump, Tristan Stubbs gets tilted and just manages to carve the ball out back to the bowler.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, ! SHOT! A low full toss from Hoff, on the stumps, Tristan Stubbs doesn't try to overhit it, brings the bat vertically down and just lofts it over the bowler for a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, WIDE! Just a bit too wide outside tramline, on the off side. Stubbs leaves.

Josh Hazlewood to Vipraj Nigam, Fired in a yorker, on the leg stump, Vipraj Nigam stays leg side and carves it away to cover, for a quick single. A direct hit at the bowling end would have been curtains for Nigam.

Josh Hazlewood to Vipraj Nigam, ! Goes all the way! Smart batting from Vipraj. Short of a good length, around off, Vipraj Nigam stands tall and just ramps it over deep third for a six.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, A low full toss at 136.3 kph, Stubbs drills it wide of long on for a single.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, ! Clever stuff from Stubbs! Cannoned too full and on middle, Tristan Stubbs shuffles well across off and ramps it over short fine leg for a boundary.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Vipraj Nigam, Aims the stumps again, on a length, Vipraj Nigam gets behind it and blocks it off. What an over from Bhuvi this. Just three runs and two big wickets off it.

Vipraj Nigam is in next.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, ! KNOCKED HIM OVER! The Impact Player for DC goes without much of an impact! Bhuvneshwar Kumar masterfully changes the pace and bowls a slower one, keeping the line of attack on the stumps. It lands and holds a touch on the surface and arrives late to the batter. Ashutosh Sharma however, is months early into his leg side heave, and the ball beats the inside edge to disturb the timber. 

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, 2 runs.

Ashutosh Sharma walks out to bat now. He is the Impact Player for DC and they sub out Faf du Plessis.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, Back of a length, skidding through on off, Ashutosh Sharma tries to cut it square, but gets beaten.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to KL Rahul, ! IN THE AIR AND TAKEN! KL Rahul perishes now in an attempt to change the gears! Worries looming large in the DC camp now.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, Fuller and on middle, Tristan Stubbs with a straight bat face, drives it to long off for just one.

Strategic Break! Well then, with just 4 overs remaining in the first innings, RCB are in command here it seems and their bowlers have done a fine job thus far of keeping the scoring rate to a minimum. The pitch hasn't been easy for batting and the spinners have made life difficult for the DC batters. Josh Hazlewood has been amongst the wickets but DC do have a well-set KL Rahul and will be hoping that he comes clutch for them in the death overs.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Short and around off, at 101.3 kph, KL Rahul is quick to rock back and drags the ball wide of deep mid-wicket for another brace. Krunal Pandya ends his spell with highly economical figures of 4-0-28-1.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Angling at the pads, firing in fuller, KL Rahul clips it all along the ground to deep square leg for two more. 

Krunal Pandya to Tristan Stubbs, Pitched fuller at 98 kph, on middle, Tristan Stubbs leans forward and pushes it off the inner half of the bat. The ball rolls through the square leg region as the batters cross over for one.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Shorter in length, on top the pegs, pulled into the leg side, in front of square for another run.

Impact Player alert! Just before the start of the 16th over, RCB used their Impact sub to bring on Devdutt Padikkal and Suyash Sharma is the one who was replaced.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Slightly on the shorter side, on middle and leg, KL Rahul punches it off the back foot, and places it perfectly between long on and deep mid-wicket for a quick couple of runs. A good diving stop from Jacob Bethell to his left to save the boundary.

Krunal Pandya to Tristan Stubbs, Drifting down the leg stump, full in length, Stubbs clips it along the ground to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Suyash Sharma to Tristan Stubbs, Excellent stuff from Suyash Sharma, just 4 off it and he gives away 22 runs in his 4 overs. Flighted up, full and around leg, Stubbs takes the front leg out and flicks it through mid-wicket for a run.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Slightly into the pitch and on middle, this one sits up and Rahul hits it off the back foot to wide long on for just another single.

Suyash Sharma to Tristan Stubbs, Bowled flatter and a bit fuller, the ball skids onto the leg stump as well, Stubbs presses back and flicks it away through mid-wicket for one.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Fires it in at the toes, Rahul advances and clips it away through wide mid on for just a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Tossed up around off, dipping as well, Rahul reaches across and eases it to covers. 

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Another full toss that isn't put away! Drifted onto the pads, a low full toss, Rahul backs away and punches it straight back to the bowler.

Suyash Sharma (3-0-18-0) to wrap up his spell now. He replaces Krunal Pandya.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Another juicy full toss, this time on the pads, KL Rahul simply flicks it away through backward square leg and picks up a single.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, Risky single! Pitches the ball up around off, Tristan Stubbs with a lovely drive on the up but he hits it straight to mid off and sets off for the single. Rajat Patidar has a shy at the bower's end but misses and Stubbs dives in to make his ground.

Tristan Stubbs walks out to bat at number 6.

Josh Hazlewood to Axar Patel, ! BOWLED'EM! Josh Hazlewood gets another wicket on his return and RCB get a timely wicket here.

Josh Hazlewood to Axar Patel, Misses out! A full toss now, on off and just pushed across, Axar Patel jams it down to mid off.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Rahul backs away early and Josh follows him with a quick bumper. This is pulled away aerially and well short of deep mid-wicket for a single.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, ! Intent from KL Rahul and the 100 comes up for DC as well. Cross-seam delivery, a bit full and straight, Rahul gets low and just heaves it behind square leg for a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood (2-0-12-1) returns into the attack. He replaces Suyash Sharma.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Flatter delivery on off, punched away off the back foot into the off side for a run.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Oh, that could have easily hit the top of off stump!

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, Quick and flat, around leg, hit away from the crease and wide of mid on for just one more.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, A tad short and angled into the batter, Rahul nudges it across through mid-wicket and turns the strike over.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, Oh, the bumper from Krunal! This is banged in over off, Axar Patel is hurried and goes to pull, mistiming it in front of square on the leg side for a single.

Krunal Pandya (2-0-9-1) is back on. He replaces Yash Dayal.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, ! The Capitals need a change in tempo and it is their skipper who has started to chance his arm.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Into the pitch and slanting it back into the batter, Patel stays back and works it through mid-wicket for a run.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, ! Smartly done!

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Swing and a miss! Tossed up around off, quicker through the air, Axar Patel looks to smash it back over the bowler's head but is well beaten. 

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, On middle and leg, just turning a touch, Rahul taps it across and just into the on side for an easy single.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Quicker one, darted in around off, sliding back in as well, Patel backs away and punches it through covers for one.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, No run.

Live visuals from the DC dugout show that Ashutosh Sharma has padded up. In case DC lose another quick wicket, they could use him as the impact player.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, ! Nicely done! Back of a length and over off, not much room on offer, KL Rahul backs away a touch and plays it with an angled bat and just behind point for a much-needed boundary.

Yash Dayal to Axar Patel, Length ball around off, angled in, Patel plays it on the up and through mid on for just a single.

Yash Dayal to Axar Patel, Back of a length and around off, Axar Patel stands tall and punches it nicely but straight to covers.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Slower one, floated up full and on off, Rahul lofts it flat and straight towards long off for just a single.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Good length over off and middle, Rahul taps it back to the bowler.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, On a fuller length and around middle, KL Rahul leans ahead and punches the straight drive back past the bowler and to the left of long on. Tim David does well running to his left and keeps it down to a brace.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, On the shorter side, outside off. Axar hits it straight back to the bowler. Halfway through and Delhi Capitals are 72/3.

Axar Patel walks out to bat now.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, ! IN THE AND AIR, AND GONE! CAUGHT! Krunal Pandya ends Faf's scratchy stay in the middle and DC are now 72/3.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, 1 run.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Oh, this stayed a tad low on the bounce! Pitching outside the leg stump, from around the stumps, on a length, gripping a bit and turning away. KL Rahul shapes to work it across to the leg side, but gets beaten by the lack of bounce.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, Drifting into the leg stump on a length, Faf du Plessis hangs back and punches it across through mid-wicket for a single.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, At 86.1 kph, fuller and on off, turning away, KL Rahul waits for it and drives through point for a single.

Strategic Break! It has been a bit of a sluggish start for Delhi Capitals and the pitch definitely seems to be a bit up and down in terms of pace and bounce as well. Royal Challengers Bengaluru have bowled tidily thus far even after that early blitz from Abishek Porel and the spinners will now be looking to put on the squeeze. Can the experienced duo of KL and Faf weather the storm and get DC out of this hole? Let's find out.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, Pushed through quicker at 100.3 kph, outside off, Faf du Plessis plays it late and cuts it straight to short third.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Drags the length back, dishes out a googly, on middle, KL Rahul tucks it down to long on for one.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, ! A loosener from Suyash and it gets the treatment! Floated up, but down the leg side, KL Rahul gets on his knee and sweeps it to deep backward square leg for a boundary.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A leg break, on a length, just outside off, KL Rahul rocks back and punches it to cover.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A wrong'un, full and outside off, turning back in. KL Rahul premeditates and tries to sweep it into the leg side, but misses.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, Pushed through, on the stumps, Faf du Plessis works it to the left of long on for a single.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, At 90.3 kph, outside off, on the shorter side, Faf du Plessis stands tall and cuts it through cover-point for a single. Another boundary-less over for Delhi Capitals.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Slower through the air, on a length, on top of the stumps, KL Rahul hangs back and works it down to long on for one more.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, 1 run.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, The call is for two and they will get it. Slower and on the shorter side, on the pads, Faf du Plessis glances off the back foot and hits it between deep mid-wicket and deep square leg for a quick couple of runs.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, Into the stumps, on a fuller length, stopping a bit, Faf du Plessis pushes it back to the bowler.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Floated fuller, on middle and leg, KL Rahul plays the paddle sweep to deep fine leg for a single.

Bowling change.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Dragged length, on the stumps, KL Rahul rocks back and drags it down to long on for a single.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, On the shorter side again, drifting on the pads, Faf du Plessis pulls it away to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, 1 run.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, 1 run.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Around off, pushed through cover for a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A loud appeal for caught behind but turned down! Virat Kohli is the one who looks very confident, but they don't go upstairs as the keeper doesn't seem that convinced. Flatter and fuller, but down the leg stump, KL Rahul tries to tickle into the leg side, but the ball grazes the front pad and Jitesh Sharma grabs the ball sharply behind the stumps.

Suyash Sharma to have a bowl now.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Perfect reply from Hoff! This one is bashed on a hard length, keeps nibbling away after pitching, on off, Faf du Plessis is beaten all ends up on the outside edge. Smiles exchanged between Faf and Josh. Delhi Capitals end their Powerplay at 52/2.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, ! That will do his confidence a world of good! The 50 is up for Delhi Capitals! Pitched fuller and nipping away from off, Faf du Plessis clears his front leg and lifts it over the bowler for a boundary. Excellent timing.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Touch fuller and angling on the leg stump line. KL Rahul tucks it between mid on and mid-wicket. Rajat Patidar from mid on scoots and slides to his right to intercept the ball. Just a single and a top effort by the RCB skipper.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Hammered into the surface, short and on the bodyline. KL Rahul sways away and leaves.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Keeps the line of attack on the stumps, fuller in length, clipped away straight to mid-wicket.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Back of a length, over the top of off, KL Rahul shapes to pull, but mistimes it through the mid-wicket region and the batters hare back for the second run. Good running.

Change? No, Josh Hazlewood to continue.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Just back of a length and over middle, Rahul presses back and punches it away in front of extra cover for a quick single.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Nagging length on middle and leg, KL Rahul whips it straight to mid on.

KL Rahul is in at number 4.

Yash Dayal to Karun Nair, ! CAUGHT! Yash Dayal gets a wicket now and Delhi Capitals are two down inside the first 5 overs!

Yash Dayal to Karun Nair, Slower one, slightly into the deck and around off, Nair hangs back and defends it out.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Goes full and wide again and gets it spot-on this time, Faf du Plessis reaches for it and smacks it through the point region for only a single.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Wide! Goes full and wide, trying to take away the hitting arc but spills it beyond the tramline for a wide. Free Hit to continue.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, ! Swung away!

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Back of a length, hammering it in over leg stump, Faf du Plessis backs away a bit and muscles it down to mid-wicket.

Change of ends for Yash Dayal (1-0-7-0). He replaces Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Josh Hazlewood to Karun Nair, ! Oh, a short-arm jab from Nair! Marginally short over middle, Karun Nair leans back and pulls it flat over the fielder at mid-wicket and gets off the mark with a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood to Karun Nair, Pitched up on middle, angled in, Karun Nair drives on the up and straight to mid on.

Karun Nair is in at number 3.

Josh Hazlewood to Abishek Porel, ! CAUGHT BEHIND! A strangle down the leg side and Josh Hazlewood gets a bit lucky here!

Josh Hazlewood to Abishek Porel, Immaculate length again from Josh, neither full nor short and hammering it around middle and leg. Porel looks to pull but is beaten and the ball goes off the hips to short third.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Hits the deck hard this time and around off, Faf du Plessis leans back to pull but mistimes it just wide of mid on before setting off for a quick single. 

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Just short of a good length, around off and middle, and angling in. Faf du Plessis is cramped for room and just about manages to block it back onto the deck.

Josh Hazlewood is brought into the attack. He replaces Yash Dayal.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Length again and around leg, clipped away well behind square leg for a couple of runs more. 17 off that over!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! Deposited deep into the stands!

Is that a boundary? Nonetheless, a stunning effort from Romario Shepherd as he slid across to his left and attempted to prevent the ball from racing away. He landed in an awkward position while stopping the ball, and while he tumbled, the ball rolled back to him, closer to the boundary ropes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Another excellent effort, this time from Romario Shepherd and it will be just two runs. Fractionally short and wide, Porel waits well and cuts it just behind point. Romario runs across from deep third and puts in the dive. The ball rolls onto his body but his legs never touch the boundary cushion.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! A valiant effort from Jacob Bethell but the ball just sails over the ropes! On a good length and around middle, Abishek Porel steps out and swings across the line but loses his shape. One hand comes off the handle and the ball goes high up and just in front of deep square leg. Bethell runs to his right and dives but the ball and Bethell both land over the ropes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Bowled just back of a length and at the batter, Faf steps out and taps it down to the left of covers. The batters look for the single but quickly decide against it as Virat Kohli gets to the ball in a flash and scores a direct hit at the bowler's end.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Hard length outside off, hit away square through the point region for a single by Faf.

Yash Dayal to Abishek Porel, ! Swiped across the line! Pitched up on middle and leg, Abishek Porel stays there and just gives it a agricultural heave, hitting it off the inner half of the blade and in front of square leg for a boundary.

Yash Dayal to Abishek Porel, Good length, angling it in towards the pads, Porel hops and dabs it down through the mid-wicket region for a couple of runs.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Nagging length on off, shaping back in a touch, Faf jams it out to mid off for a quick single.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Oh, beaten! Faf is early to step out and Dayal bowls it on the money. Good length on off and middle, skidding through past the outside edge and just over the off stump.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Length ball, pushed well across the off stump, Faf advances and stays leg side of the ball, driving it straight to mid off.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Back of a length and around off, Faf du Plessis presses back and punches it down straight towards the fielder in front of point.

Yash Dayal to operate from the far end.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Nagging length, aimed at the stumps, late away movement as well, Faf gets it off the outside half of the bat and through cover-point for a single. DC are 8/0 after the first over!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Around the wicket to the left-hander now, bowling it a bit short on off. Porel advances and gets an inside edge past the stumps to short fine leg for one more.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Nice shape on that one! Fullish length on off, swinging away, Faf plays it late and taps it in front of point for a single.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Pitched-up delivery on the fifth stump line, Faf du Plessis has a sighter and leaves it alone.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Good-length delivery, on off and just angling away, Porel looks to punch it away but gets an inside edge onto the pads. The ball rolls to point and they get a quick single.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! Off the mark in style!

Back in the capital city as it is game time in Match 46. The bell has rung and we are all set. Rajat Patidar leads his troops to the centre as the players of Royal Challengers Bengaluru take their respective fielding positions. The new opening pair for Delhi Capitals, Faf du Plessis and Abishek Porel, now walk up to the crease. The new ball has been handed over to Bhuvneshwar Kumar who will open the attack with the ball for RCB. Porel to face Bhuvi first up. The countdown goes off and here

Well, down in Mumbai, home side Mumbai Indians have comprehensively defeated the Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs. With this win, MI have bounced into the third spot, replacing RCB, who have slipped to the fourth. This marks MI's sixth win, and more importantly, their fifth consecutive win in the last five games. However, if RCB wins tonight, they have an opportunity to take the top spot. For Lucknow Super Giants, this marks their fifth loss, and with an equal number of wins, in ten matches, they

Josh Hazlewood of Royal Challengers Bengaluru is up for a flash interview. He begins by noting that despite being away from home, RCB has actually been performing better on the road this season. He indicates they'll stick with their established game plan and expresses confidence in their well-rounded bowling attack, particularly highlighting their two quality spinners who have successfully wrestled back momentum after challenging powerplay periods in recent matches. When asked about potentiall

The captain of Delhi Capitals, Axar Patel, says that they would have batted first and used the wicket in the second innings. Highlights that there was no dew in the last game, and says it looks like a slow wicket. Expects it to do a bit more in the second innings. Informs Faf du Plessis is in the side, and is in the starting XI.

The captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajat Patidar, says that it looks like a good wicket and won't change much, so it's good to prefer chasing. Says they will try to play good cricket. Adds in every game, they are attempting to keep improving and learn along with it. Informs that there is one change as Jacob Bethell comes in for Phil Salt. He says Salt is suffering from a bit of fever and misses out on this game.

Impact players nominated by Royal Challengers Bengaluru - Devdutt Padikkal, Rasikh Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Liam Livingstone, and Swapnil Singh.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI) - Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (C), Romario Shepherd, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal.

Impact players nominated by Delhi Capitals - Ashutosh Sharma, Mohit Sharma, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Madhav Tiwari, and Tripurana Vijay.

Delhi Capitals (Playing XI) - Faf du Plessis, Abishek Porel, Karun Nair, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel (C), Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Dushmantha Chameera, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar.

TOSS UPDATE - The flip of the coin lands in favor of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajat Patidar elects to BOWL first.

We are back with RCB's reply! The two umpires make their way out to the middle and are followed by the new opening pair for RCB - Jacob Bethell, on his IPL debut, along with Virat Kohli. 

... THE RUN CHASE ...

Josh Hazlewood is up for a quick chat. He first wears the Purple Cap as he now becomes the leading wicket-taker in the season with 18 wickets in 10 matches. He says he has enjoyed it and thinks he has only gotten better every game. Says Tristan Stubbs batted really well in the end on a tough pitch. On the wicket, he highlights that it is a tough wicket to read. Says the environment in the team is really nice and things are turning up nicely. Says it is just about following the process and exec

Right then, 163 is the score that RCB need to get the win and move up to 14 points, which will take them clear at the top of the table and it shouldn't be too difficult with their current form. However, DC also have the same incentive if they win, so they won't make it easy for RCB, who are still unbeaten away from home. A fascinating chase is up next.

The lowest total for Delhi Capitals this season while setting a total and they will be pleased in the end to have breached the 160-run mark. Abishek Porel started off in style but fell quite early and KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis had to do the rebuild work. Faf couldn't kick on after a slow start and Rahul also ended up giving his wicket away at a crucial juncture. Skipper, Axar Patel got away a couple of boundaries but it was Tristan Stubbs who was the difference maker between a total of a

Rajat Patidar had no hesitation in bowling first on a track that seemed a bit two-paced to begin with. After a couple of overs, it was clear that there was some uneven bounce and some balls were skidding through, whereas some were holding in the deck. RCB got a couple of wickets in the Powerplay, which helped, but it was the spinners in the middle phase who really suffocated the opposition batters. Josh Hazlewood picked up an early wicket and then came back in to break a brewing stand, but both

A late, late flourish from the Capitals, but Royal Challengers Bengaluru will feel they have done enough to be ahead at the interval. The score does look under par, but with the pitch playing a bit different, is it a defendable one or did the Capitals leave it too late? Only time will tell.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Dushmantha Chameera, Bhuvneshwar Kumar sees the batter moving a bit to the off side, and smartly bowls it further away from the batter, just outside the tramline. Dushmantha Chameera swings for the hills but misses. The umpire doesn't signal for a wide and a review is taken.

Dushmantha Chameera is the next batter in.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! IN THE AIR AND GONE! CAUGHT! Bhuvneshwar Kumar showing his class again, as he snags the third wicket!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! Cracking shot!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, No run.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, ! RUN OUT! 

Mitchell Starc is in next.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Vipraj Nigam, A slower ball, on a fullish bit of length, and just outside off. Nigam shuffles across off and gets down on a knee for the swipe across, but misses. The ball ricochets off his thigh pad, and rolls into the leg side, behind square and the batters take a leg bye.

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, MISFIELD, ! An attempted yorker, slower too, right at the stumps, Stubbs stands in a wide stance to and drills straight down the ground to the right of long on. The fielder slides and gets his hands on the ball, but ends up deflecting it to the ropes. 

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, A good response by Dayal! Cannons in a yorker, just outside off, Tristan Stubbs doesn't manage to carve it out to the off side.

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, ! Audacious! An attempted yorker, on the stumps, Tristan Stubbs switches his stance and reverse ramps it over short third, all the way for a six. With this, the 150 is up for Delhi Capitals!

Yash Dayal to Tristan Stubbs, Four!

Yash Dayal to Vipraj Nigam, 1 run.

Yash Dayal to Vipraj Nigam, A comedy of errors, first in the running and then in the field.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, Hazlewood replies with a toe-crushing yorker, with a hint of reverse, on the leg stump, Tristan Stubbs gets tilted and just manages to carve the ball out back to the bowler.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, ! SHOT! A low full toss from Hoff, on the stumps, Tristan Stubbs doesn't try to overhit it, brings the bat vertically down and just lofts it over the bowler for a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, WIDE! Just a bit too wide outside tramline, on the off side. Stubbs leaves.

Josh Hazlewood to Vipraj Nigam, Fired in a yorker, on the leg stump, Vipraj Nigam stays leg side and carves it away to cover, for a quick single. A direct hit at the bowling end would have been curtains for Nigam.

Josh Hazlewood to Vipraj Nigam, ! Goes all the way! Smart batting from Vipraj. Short of a good length, around off, Vipraj Nigam stands tall and just ramps it over deep third for a six.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, A low full toss at 136.3 kph, Stubbs drills it wide of long on for a single.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, ! Clever stuff from Stubbs! Cannoned too full and on middle, Tristan Stubbs shuffles well across off and ramps it over short fine leg for a boundary.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Vipraj Nigam, Aims the stumps again, on a length, Vipraj Nigam gets behind it and blocks it off. What an over from Bhuvi this. Just three runs and two big wickets off it.

Vipraj Nigam is in next.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, ! KNOCKED HIM OVER! The Impact Player for DC goes without much of an impact! Bhuvneshwar Kumar masterfully changes the pace and bowls a slower one, keeping the line of attack on the stumps. It lands and holds a touch on the surface and arrives late to the batter. Ashutosh Sharma however, is months early into his leg side heave, and the ball beats the inside edge to disturb the timber. 

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, 2 runs.

Ashutosh Sharma walks out to bat now. He is the Impact Player for DC and they sub out Faf du Plessis.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Ashutosh Sharma, Back of a length, skidding through on off, Ashutosh Sharma tries to cut it square, but gets beaten.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to KL Rahul, ! IN THE AIR AND TAKEN! KL Rahul perishes now in an attempt to change the gears! Worries looming large in the DC camp now.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Tristan Stubbs, Fuller and on middle, Tristan Stubbs with a straight bat face, drives it to long off for just one.

Strategic Break! Well then, with just 4 overs remaining in the first innings, RCB are in command here it seems and their bowlers have done a fine job thus far of keeping the scoring rate to a minimum. The pitch hasn't been easy for batting and the spinners have made life difficult for the DC batters. Josh Hazlewood has been amongst the wickets but DC do have a well-set KL Rahul and will be hoping that he comes clutch for them in the death overs.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Short and around off, at 101.3 kph, KL Rahul is quick to rock back and drags the ball wide of deep mid-wicket for another brace. Krunal Pandya ends his spell with highly economical figures of 4-0-28-1.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Angling at the pads, firing in fuller, KL Rahul clips it all along the ground to deep square leg for two more. 

Krunal Pandya to Tristan Stubbs, Pitched fuller at 98 kph, on middle, Tristan Stubbs leans forward and pushes it off the inner half of the bat. The ball rolls through the square leg region as the batters cross over for one.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Shorter in length, on top the pegs, pulled into the leg side, in front of square for another run.

Impact Player alert! Just before the start of the 16th over, RCB used their Impact sub to bring on Devdutt Padikkal and Suyash Sharma is the one who was replaced.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Slightly on the shorter side, on middle and leg, KL Rahul punches it off the back foot, and places it perfectly between long on and deep mid-wicket for a quick couple of runs. A good diving stop from Jacob Bethell to his left to save the boundary.

Krunal Pandya to Tristan Stubbs, Drifting down the leg stump, full in length, Stubbs clips it along the ground to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Suyash Sharma to Tristan Stubbs, Excellent stuff from Suyash Sharma, just 4 off it and he gives away 22 runs in his 4 overs. Flighted up, full and around leg, Stubbs takes the front leg out and flicks it through mid-wicket for a run.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Slightly into the pitch and on middle, this one sits up and Rahul hits it off the back foot to wide long on for just another single.

Suyash Sharma to Tristan Stubbs, Bowled flatter and a bit fuller, the ball skids onto the leg stump as well, Stubbs presses back and flicks it away through mid-wicket for one.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Fires it in at the toes, Rahul advances and clips it away through wide mid on for just a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Tossed up around off, dipping as well, Rahul reaches across and eases it to covers. 

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Another full toss that isn't put away! Drifted onto the pads, a low full toss, Rahul backs away and punches it straight back to the bowler.

Suyash Sharma (3-0-18-0) to wrap up his spell now. He replaces Krunal Pandya.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Another juicy full toss, this time on the pads, KL Rahul simply flicks it away through backward square leg and picks up a single.

Josh Hazlewood to Tristan Stubbs, Risky single! Pitches the ball up around off, Tristan Stubbs with a lovely drive on the up but he hits it straight to mid off and sets off for the single. Rajat Patidar has a shy at the bower's end but misses and Stubbs dives in to make his ground.

Tristan Stubbs walks out to bat at number 6.

Josh Hazlewood to Axar Patel, ! BOWLED'EM! Josh Hazlewood gets another wicket on his return and RCB get a timely wicket here.

Josh Hazlewood to Axar Patel, Misses out! A full toss now, on off and just pushed across, Axar Patel jams it down to mid off.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Rahul backs away early and Josh follows him with a quick bumper. This is pulled away aerially and well short of deep mid-wicket for a single.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, ! Intent from KL Rahul and the 100 comes up for DC as well. Cross-seam delivery, a bit full and straight, Rahul gets low and just heaves it behind square leg for a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood (2-0-12-1) returns into the attack. He replaces Suyash Sharma.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Flatter delivery on off, punched away off the back foot into the off side for a run.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Oh, that could have easily hit the top of off stump!

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, Quick and flat, around leg, hit away from the crease and wide of mid on for just one more.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, A tad short and angled into the batter, Rahul nudges it across through mid-wicket and turns the strike over.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, Oh, the bumper from Krunal! This is banged in over off, Axar Patel is hurried and goes to pull, mistiming it in front of square on the leg side for a single.

Krunal Pandya (2-0-9-1) is back on. He replaces Yash Dayal.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, ! The Capitals need a change in tempo and it is their skipper who has started to chance his arm.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Into the pitch and slanting it back into the batter, Patel stays back and works it through mid-wicket for a run.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, ! Smartly done!

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Swing and a miss! Tossed up around off, quicker through the air, Axar Patel looks to smash it back over the bowler's head but is well beaten. 

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, On middle and leg, just turning a touch, Rahul taps it across and just into the on side for an easy single.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, Quicker one, darted in around off, sliding back in as well, Patel backs away and punches it through covers for one.

Suyash Sharma to Axar Patel, No run.

Live visuals from the DC dugout show that Ashutosh Sharma has padded up. In case DC lose another quick wicket, they could use him as the impact player.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, ! Nicely done! Back of a length and over off, not much room on offer, KL Rahul backs away a touch and plays it with an angled bat and just behind point for a much-needed boundary.

Yash Dayal to Axar Patel, Length ball around off, angled in, Patel plays it on the up and through mid on for just a single.

Yash Dayal to Axar Patel, Back of a length and around off, Axar Patel stands tall and punches it nicely but straight to covers.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Slower one, floated up full and on off, Rahul lofts it flat and straight towards long off for just a single.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Good length over off and middle, Rahul taps it back to the bowler.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, On a fuller length and around middle, KL Rahul leans ahead and punches the straight drive back past the bowler and to the left of long on. Tim David does well running to his left and keeps it down to a brace.

Krunal Pandya to Axar Patel, On the shorter side, outside off. Axar hits it straight back to the bowler. Halfway through and Delhi Capitals are 72/3.

Axar Patel walks out to bat now.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, ! IN THE AND AIR, AND GONE! CAUGHT! Krunal Pandya ends Faf's scratchy stay in the middle and DC are now 72/3.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, 1 run.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Oh, this stayed a tad low on the bounce! Pitching outside the leg stump, from around the stumps, on a length, gripping a bit and turning away. KL Rahul shapes to work it across to the leg side, but gets beaten by the lack of bounce.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, Drifting into the leg stump on a length, Faf du Plessis hangs back and punches it across through mid-wicket for a single.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, At 86.1 kph, fuller and on off, turning away, KL Rahul waits for it and drives through point for a single.

Strategic Break! It has been a bit of a sluggish start for Delhi Capitals and the pitch definitely seems to be a bit up and down in terms of pace and bounce as well. Royal Challengers Bengaluru have bowled tidily thus far even after that early blitz from Abishek Porel and the spinners will now be looking to put on the squeeze. Can the experienced duo of KL and Faf weather the storm and get DC out of this hole? Let's find out.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, Pushed through quicker at 100.3 kph, outside off, Faf du Plessis plays it late and cuts it straight to short third.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Drags the length back, dishes out a googly, on middle, KL Rahul tucks it down to long on for one.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, ! A loosener from Suyash and it gets the treatment! Floated up, but down the leg side, KL Rahul gets on his knee and sweeps it to deep backward square leg for a boundary.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A leg break, on a length, just outside off, KL Rahul rocks back and punches it to cover.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A wrong'un, full and outside off, turning back in. KL Rahul premeditates and tries to sweep it into the leg side, but misses.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, Pushed through, on the stumps, Faf du Plessis works it to the left of long on for a single.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, At 90.3 kph, outside off, on the shorter side, Faf du Plessis stands tall and cuts it through cover-point for a single. Another boundary-less over for Delhi Capitals.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Slower through the air, on a length, on top of the stumps, KL Rahul hangs back and works it down to long on for one more.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, 1 run.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, The call is for two and they will get it. Slower and on the shorter side, on the pads, Faf du Plessis glances off the back foot and hits it between deep mid-wicket and deep square leg for a quick couple of runs.

Krunal Pandya to Faf du Plessis, Into the stumps, on a fuller length, stopping a bit, Faf du Plessis pushes it back to the bowler.

Krunal Pandya to KL Rahul, Floated fuller, on middle and leg, KL Rahul plays the paddle sweep to deep fine leg for a single.

Bowling change.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Dragged length, on the stumps, KL Rahul rocks back and drags it down to long on for a single.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, On the shorter side again, drifting on the pads, Faf du Plessis pulls it away to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, 1 run.

Suyash Sharma to Faf du Plessis, 1 run.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, Around off, pushed through cover for a single.

Suyash Sharma to KL Rahul, A loud appeal for caught behind but turned down! Virat Kohli is the one who looks very confident, but they don't go upstairs as the keeper doesn't seem that convinced. Flatter and fuller, but down the leg stump, KL Rahul tries to tickle into the leg side, but the ball grazes the front pad and Jitesh Sharma grabs the ball sharply behind the stumps.

Suyash Sharma to have a bowl now.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Perfect reply from Hoff! This one is bashed on a hard length, keeps nibbling away after pitching, on off, Faf du Plessis is beaten all ends up on the outside edge. Smiles exchanged between Faf and Josh. Delhi Capitals end their Powerplay at 52/2.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, ! That will do his confidence a world of good! The 50 is up for Delhi Capitals! Pitched fuller and nipping away from off, Faf du Plessis clears his front leg and lifts it over the bowler for a boundary. Excellent timing.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Touch fuller and angling on the leg stump line. KL Rahul tucks it between mid on and mid-wicket. Rajat Patidar from mid on scoots and slides to his right to intercept the ball. Just a single and a top effort by the RCB skipper.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Hammered into the surface, short and on the bodyline. KL Rahul sways away and leaves.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Keeps the line of attack on the stumps, fuller in length, clipped away straight to mid-wicket.

Josh Hazlewood to KL Rahul, Back of a length, over the top of off, KL Rahul shapes to pull, but mistimes it through the mid-wicket region and the batters hare back for the second run. Good running.

Change? No, Josh Hazlewood to continue.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Just back of a length and over middle, Rahul presses back and punches it away in front of extra cover for a quick single.

Yash Dayal to KL Rahul, Nagging length on middle and leg, KL Rahul whips it straight to mid on.

KL Rahul is in at number 4.

Yash Dayal to Karun Nair, ! CAUGHT! Yash Dayal gets a wicket now and Delhi Capitals are two down inside the first 5 overs!

Yash Dayal to Karun Nair, Slower one, slightly into the deck and around off, Nair hangs back and defends it out.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Goes full and wide again and gets it spot-on this time, Faf du Plessis reaches for it and smacks it through the point region for only a single.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Wide! Goes full and wide, trying to take away the hitting arc but spills it beyond the tramline for a wide. Free Hit to continue.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, ! Swung away!

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Back of a length, hammering it in over leg stump, Faf du Plessis backs away a bit and muscles it down to mid-wicket.

Change of ends for Yash Dayal (1-0-7-0). He replaces Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Josh Hazlewood to Karun Nair, ! Oh, a short-arm jab from Nair! Marginally short over middle, Karun Nair leans back and pulls it flat over the fielder at mid-wicket and gets off the mark with a boundary.

Josh Hazlewood to Karun Nair, Pitched up on middle, angled in, Karun Nair drives on the up and straight to mid on.

Karun Nair is in at number 3.

Josh Hazlewood to Abishek Porel, ! CAUGHT BEHIND! A strangle down the leg side and Josh Hazlewood gets a bit lucky here!

Josh Hazlewood to Abishek Porel, Immaculate length again from Josh, neither full nor short and hammering it around middle and leg. Porel looks to pull but is beaten and the ball goes off the hips to short third.

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Hits the deck hard this time and around off, Faf du Plessis leans back to pull but mistimes it just wide of mid on before setting off for a quick single. 

Josh Hazlewood to Faf du Plessis, Just short of a good length, around off and middle, and angling in. Faf du Plessis is cramped for room and just about manages to block it back onto the deck.

Josh Hazlewood is brought into the attack. He replaces Yash Dayal.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Length again and around leg, clipped away well behind square leg for a couple of runs more. 17 off that over!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! Deposited deep into the stands!

Is that a boundary? Nonetheless, a stunning effort from Romario Shepherd as he slid across to his left and attempted to prevent the ball from racing away. He landed in an awkward position while stopping the ball, and while he tumbled, the ball rolled back to him, closer to the boundary ropes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Another excellent effort, this time from Romario Shepherd and it will be just two runs. Fractionally short and wide, Porel waits well and cuts it just behind point. Romario runs across from deep third and puts in the dive. The ball rolls onto his body but his legs never touch the boundary cushion.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! A valiant effort from Jacob Bethell but the ball just sails over the ropes! On a good length and around middle, Abishek Porel steps out and swings across the line but loses his shape. One hand comes off the handle and the ball goes high up and just in front of deep square leg. Bethell runs to his right and dives but the ball and Bethell both land over the ropes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Bowled just back of a length and at the batter, Faf steps out and taps it down to the left of covers. The batters look for the single but quickly decide against it as Virat Kohli gets to the ball in a flash and scores a direct hit at the bowler's end.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Hard length outside off, hit away square through the point region for a single by Faf.

Yash Dayal to Abishek Porel, ! Swiped across the line! Pitched up on middle and leg, Abishek Porel stays there and just gives it a agricultural heave, hitting it off the inner half of the blade and in front of square leg for a boundary.

Yash Dayal to Abishek Porel, Good length, angling it in towards the pads, Porel hops and dabs it down through the mid-wicket region for a couple of runs.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Nagging length on off, shaping back in a touch, Faf jams it out to mid off for a quick single.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Oh, beaten! Faf is early to step out and Dayal bowls it on the money. Good length on off and middle, skidding through past the outside edge and just over the off stump.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Length ball, pushed well across the off stump, Faf advances and stays leg side of the ball, driving it straight to mid off.

Yash Dayal to Faf du Plessis, Back of a length and around off, Faf du Plessis presses back and punches it down straight towards the fielder in front of point.

Yash Dayal to operate from the far end.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Nagging length, aimed at the stumps, late away movement as well, Faf gets it off the outside half of the bat and through cover-point for a single. DC are 8/0 after the first over!

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Around the wicket to the left-hander now, bowling it a bit short on off. Porel advances and gets an inside edge past the stumps to short fine leg for one more.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Nice shape on that one! Fullish length on off, swinging away, Faf plays it late and taps it in front of point for a single.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Faf du Plessis, Pitched-up delivery on the fifth stump line, Faf du Plessis has a sighter and leaves it alone.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, Good-length delivery, on off and just angling away, Porel looks to punch it away but gets an inside edge onto the pads. The ball rolls to point and they get a quick single.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Abishek Porel, ! Off the mark in style!

Back in the capital city as it is game time in Match 46. The bell has rung and we are all set. Rajat Patidar leads his troops to the centre as the players of Royal Challengers Bengaluru take their respective fielding positions. The new opening pair for Delhi Capitals, Faf du Plessis and Abishek Porel, now walk up to the crease. The new ball has been handed over to Bhuvneshwar Kumar who will open the attack with the ball for RCB. Porel to face Bhuvi first up. The countdown goes off and here

Well, down in Mumbai, home side Mumbai Indians have comprehensively defeated the Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs. With this win, MI have bounced into the third spot, replacing RCB, who have slipped to the fourth. This marks MI's sixth win, and more importantly, their fifth consecutive win in the last five games. However, if RCB wins tonight, they have an opportunity to take the top spot. For Lucknow Super Giants, this marks their fifth loss, and with an equal number of wins, in ten matches, they

Josh Hazlewood of Royal Challengers Bengaluru is up for a flash interview. He begins by noting that despite being away from home, RCB has actually been performing better on the road this season. He indicates they'll stick with their established game plan and expresses confidence in their well-rounded bowling attack, particularly highlighting their two quality spinners who have successfully wrestled back momentum after challenging powerplay periods in recent matches. When asked about potentiall

The captain of Delhi Capitals, Axar Patel, says that they would have batted first and used the wicket in the second innings. Highlights that there was no dew in the last game, and says it looks like a slow wicket. Expects it to do a bit more in the second innings. Informs Faf du Plessis is in the side, and is in the starting XI.

The captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajat Patidar, says that it looks like a good wicket and won't change much, so it's good to prefer chasing. Says they will try to play good cricket. Adds in every game, they are attempting to keep improving and learn along with it. Informs that there is one change as Jacob Bethell comes in for Phil Salt. He says Salt is suffering from a bit of fever and misses out on this game.

Impact players nominated by Royal Challengers Bengaluru - Devdutt Padikkal, Rasikh Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Liam Livingstone, and Swapnil Singh.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI) - Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (C), Romario Shepherd, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal.

Impact players nominated by Delhi Capitals - Ashutosh Sharma, Mohit Sharma, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Madhav Tiwari, and Tripurana Vijay.

Delhi Capitals (Playing XI) - Faf du Plessis, Abishek Porel, Karun Nair, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel (C), Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Dushmantha Chameera, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar.

TOSS UPDATE - The flip of the coin lands in favor of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajat Patidar elects to BOWL first.