The M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set for another run-fest as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 23 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. With short boundaries and a batting-friendly pitch, all eyes are on two in-form batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. Both players bring contrasting styles and impressive numbers to this contest, promising fireworks under the lights.
Virat Kohli’s dominant form at home
Virat Kohli has been in great touch this season, scoring 179 runs in 4 innings at an average of 59.7 and a strike rate of 163, including two fifties. His consistency at the Chinnaswamy Stadium since 2024 is remarkable. He scored 599 runs in 14 innings at an average of 49.9 and a strike rate of 163, with five half-centuries.
Kohli’s last five scores on the field were: 28(18), 69*(38), 62(33), 70(42) and 1(3). Specifically against LSG, he managed 193 runs in 6 innings at an average of 32.2 and a strike rate of 133, with two fifties. After training well, fitness concerns from a minor ankle niggle seem to have subsided and fans are expecting him to once again anchor RCB’s powerful top-order.
Aggressive recording by Rishabh Pant vs RCB
LSG skipper Rishabh Pant started IPL 2026 with 103 runs in 4 innings at an average of 34.3 and a strike rate of 130, including one fifty. He put up strong numbers against pace.
Pant’s record against RCB is excellent. He amassed 539 runs in 13 innings at a staggering average of 53.9 and a strike rate of 158, with four fifties and one century. In Chinnaswamy he was also destructive, with 160 runs in 3 innings at an average of 53.3 and a strike rate of 163, including two fifties. His spot scores are: 18(14), 85(48) and 57(36). These stats highlight Pant’s ability to accelerate on this high-scoring ground.
Head-to-head and venue dynamics
While Kohli thrives on consistency and big domestic performances, Pant brings explosive intent, especially against RCB. Known for true bounce and short boundaries, Chinnaswamy’s pitch usually produces scores above 190 in the first innings, favoring aggressive batsmen who can clear the ropes with ease. Rosa often helps chasing teams in the second inning.
RCB is currently third in the points table with 6 points from 4 matches. LSG are seventh with 4 points.
RCB vs LSG toss update
Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the toss and elected to bowl.
