IPL 2026: RCB vs LSG, Match 23 – Top player battles to watch out for

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 23 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on April 15. With both teams aiming to strengthen their position on the points table, a cracking contest is on the cards at a venue known for high-scoring thrillers.

RCB head into the clash with momentum on their side, having delivered consistent performances so far this season. Skipper Rajat Patidar has led from the front with the bat, while Phil Salt has been explosive at the top. Their batting unit looks well-settled, making them a dangerous side, especially in home conditions. 

In contrast, LSG are looking to bounce back after a setback in their previous game. Their star-studded batting lineup, featuring Rishabh Pant, Aiden Markram, and Nicholas Pooran, has not quite fired collectively yet. The bowling attack, however, will be key in countering RCB’s power-packed batting.

With plenty of firepower on both sides, the game could be defined by some fascinating individual battles.

Here are 3 player battles for RCB vs LSG, Match 23 of IPL 2026:

3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs Mukul Choudhary

Mukul Choudhary has been one of the standout performers for LSG this season, especially after his remarkable innings against KKR, finishing the game when his team was down and out. Known for his finishing abilities, Mukul can be lethal in the death overs. 

However, he will face the challenge of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose control and variations, particularly in the death, make him a tough bowler to score against. Interestingly, the two haven’t faced each other yet, adding more intrigue to this matchup. Mukul can be a dangerous asset on a flat Chinnaswamy wicket, and Bhuvneshwar will have the responsibility of stopping him.

2.  Rajat Patidar vs Digvesh Rathi

RCB skipper Rajat Patidar has been in sublime touch, anchoring the innings while maintaining a high strike rate. His ability to handle both pace and spin makes him a key wicket for LSG. Digvesh Rathi, with his leg-spin, could be used as a matchup option against Patidar in the middle overs. 

In one innings where they faced each other, Rajat has scored six runs in just three balls, indicating his impressive spin game. While the sample size between the two is minimal, this battle could play a crucial role in shaping the middle phase of the innings.

1. Phil Salt vs Mohammed Shami

Phil Salt has been in red-hot form at the top, taking the attack to bowlers right from the powerplay. His aggressive intent makes him a dangerous proposition on the Chinnaswamy surface. However, he will be up against the experienced Mohammed Shami, who is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball.

Shami’s accuracy and seam movement could test Salt’s attacking approach, making this an exciting contest in the opening overs. In the three innings so far against Shami, the English opener holds an upper hand, scoring 27 runs in just 14 balls. The Indian pacer has dismissed Salt once, but his high economy against him remains a concern.