![Axar Patel Virat Kohli. [Source - AP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1777202547453_AxarPatelViratKohli.jpg?type=hq)
Axar Patel Virat Kohli. [Source - AP]
Delhi Capitals will look to bounce back after a tough last game as they face RCB at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Match 39 of IPL 2026. The match is set for Monday, April 27, at 7:30 PM IST.
This is the return fixture, with DC having beaten RCB earlier this season in a thrilling last-over finish. Both teams are eager for crucial points, and Virat Kohli will be key for RCB as they aim make things equal.
DC vs RCB Match Preview- Match 39, IPL 2026
Delhi Capitals started the season with promise, winning their first two games, but have since struggled with consistency. They have managed only 1 win from the next 5 matches and are now 6th in the points table with 6 points.
In contrast, RCB has been in fantastic form, winning 5 of their 7 games. Their solid performances have placed them comfortably at the top 2 of the standings, looking like strong contenders for the playoffs already.
Not so Home Advantage for Delhi Capitals when Virat Kohli is around
Delhi Capitals had a strong performance with the bat in their last match against Punjab Kings, with KL Rahul and Nitish Rana showing glimpses of their batting prowess. However, the team continues to struggle with their bowling, especially in taking wickets.
With the worst bowling average in IPL 2026 at 43.46 and a third lowest economy rate of 10.11, Delhi Capitals are in a tough spot. Their pace attack drops to an alarming 51.62 average, highlighting the inefficiency in their bowling department.
The biggest concern for Delhi has been the powerplay phase, where they have taken just 6 wickets in 7 games, the least in the league. In addition, their economy rate during this phase is almost 11.
While Mitchell Starc has joined the DC squad but will not be available against RCB, the uncertainty around Lungi Ngidi, their best bowler this season, is a significant blow. His absence further weakens their already struggling bowling attack.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Produces First Super Over As LSG Vs KKR Ends In Tie
Notably, Delhi Capitals have also struggled at their home ground, Arun Jaitley Stadium, winning just 1 of their last 5 matches here. This is also the only outright win at home since IPL 2025, with another win being a Super Over tie.
If Delhi Capitals cannot figure out how to get themselves over the line on home turf, their IPL 2026 campaign may slip further. They will need to find a way to stop Virat Kohli and RCB for starters.
RCB holds the upper hand against Delhi Capitals at Arun Jaitley Stadium, winning 7 of 11 matches and Kohli has been a dominant force in this fixture. The veteran batsman averages an impressive 66.5 runs at this venue against Delhi.
With 7 half-centuries in 11 innings, including 4 in the last 5 inning, Kohliâs consistency makes him a major threat for DC. However, Delhi might have one answer in KL Rahul, who thrives against RCB and is DC's best batter at home, averaging 76.33 since IPL 2025.
Key Stats
- RCB lead the head-to-head record vs DC by 19-13 with 1 tie and 1 NR as well.
- KL Rahul has 839 runs at 69.91 average against RCB in IPL.
- Josh Hazlewood loves bowling away from home - 16 wickets and 12.8 strike-rate.
- KL Rahul vs Josh Hazlewood in T20s - 135 runs, 2 dismissals at 173.1 strike-rate.
- Virat Kohli averages 66.75 with 7 half-centuries in 11 away games since IPL 2025.
- Only one DC bowler averages below 30 at Arun Jaitley Stadium since IPL 2025 - Lungi Ngidi, 29 average.
- RCB has been the second most destructive batting unit in IPL 2026 - 172.98 strike-rate with a six every 9.4 deliveries.
- RCB's middle-order has the best six hitting rate in IPL 2026 - 7.15 balls only per six.
- DC has lost only 3 wickets in 3 games inside powerplay at Arun Jaitley Stadium this season.
- Pathum Nissanka has scored 84 runs at a strike-rate of 182.61 inside powerplay at DC's home this season.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar has the third best economy rate in death overs this IPL - 6 wickets at 7.8 economy.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar has dismissed Pathum Nissanka 3 times in 24 balls in T20s.
- RCB has the second best run-rate against spin in IPL 2026 - 10.52
- However, RCB has suffered 6 dismissals, scoring at 15.17 average and at a strike-rate of 124.66 against left-arm spin during middle-overs.
- No spinner has taken more wickets than Krunal Pandya in away games since IPL 2025 - 16 wickets, 7.54 economy rate and 13.8 strike-rate.
Possible Changes
Mangesh Yadav In for RCB
As Rasikh Dar is out of DC vs RCB, Mangesh Yadav will most likely make his IPL debut, featuring in RCB's playing XI vs DC.
Will Lungi Ngidi play in DC vs RCB?
Lungi Ngidi, after suffering a huge injury scare against Punjab Kings was declared stable, but is unlikely to play in DC vs RCB and will most likely be replaced by Dushmanta Chameera in DC's playing XI.
What To Expect?
It was a total run-fest at Arun Jaitley Stadium last Saturday, but donât expect a repeat of such outrageous scores. While it will still be a high-scoring affair with a target of around 210 chasable. Anything beyond that will make chasing more difficult.
Only 1 wicket per innings has been lost in the powerplay, making it crucial to capitalize early with the bat. Spinners are expected to get some grip and turn, offering a bit more control than pacers. With RCB's firepower and recent record, they should start as favorites.
Also Read: LSG Qualification Scenario For IPL 2026 Playoffs After Super Over Defeat Vs KKR
