MS Dhoni Virat Kohli Shreyas Iyer Ruturaj Gaikwad for CSK, RCB, and PBKS. Image Credits: AFP/AP
In IPL few numbers carry as much baggage as '49,' especially for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The infamous total dates back to the IPL 2017 season, when RCB were bowled out for just 49 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, still the lowest score in IPL history.
Years later, the number continues to haunt the franchise, often resurfacing in banter, memes, and taunts. During IPL 2026, that memory nearly came back into focus during a dramatic clash involving Delhi Capitals.
Delhi Capitals narrowly avoids unwanted IPL history
Batting first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals collapsed slipping to 13 for 6 in the early overs. At one point, they were even worse off at 8 for 6, raising serious fears of breaking the 49 record.
The tension was intense, with fans nervously counting every run. The situation looked dire until Kyle Jamieson stepped in and smashed a crucial six, taking Delhi Capitals past 49 and sparking relief across the team and fans.
RCB's ruthless bowling destroys Delhi Capitals
The collapse was largely due to a remarkable bowling performance from RCB. Bhuvneshwar Kumar set the tone early, removing debutant Sahil Parakh with a sharp delivery.
Josh Hazlewood then struck immediately, dismissing KL Rahul and Sameer Rizvi in quick succession, pushing DC into complete disarray. The new-ball duo maintained relentless pressure, extracting movement and denying batters any chance to settle.
Bhuvneshwar continued his dominance by removing key players like Tristan Stubbs and Axar Patel, while Hazlewood returned later to complete a four-wicket haul. Despite a fighting 30 from Abishek Porel, Delhi Capitals never truly recovered and were eventually bowled out for 75.
Also Read: "RCB's 49 Is Safe": Delhi Capitals Collapse Lets Fans Hand Uno Reverse To Bengaluru
PBKS' '49' post sparks backlash from RCB fans
The '49' saga did not end there. During the next match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings took a cheeky dig at RCB. After crossing 49 runs early in their innings, PBKS posted '49/1' on social media, a clear nod to RCBβs infamous record.
This did not sit well with RCB supporters, who quickly hit back online. Comments ranged from calling PBKS an 'irrelevant, trophy-less franchise' to mocking their lack of IPL titles. Some fans even pointed out the irony of teams trolling RCB only to lose their matches afterward.
The situation escalated into a full-fledged fan war, with both sides exchanging words. Interestingly, PBKS went on to lose that match to Rajasthan Royals, adding fuel to RCB fansβ claims.
Some fans also stated that PBKS has taken revenge from RCB for after they shared Ek tha jo wicket ke piche seβ¦.β post.
Fans wrote - "Irrelevant trophy less franchise π€‘π€‘ thinking that they are the main character of this league.π€£π€£π€£π€£"
"Chl ja ab lassi pi ππΏ Irrelevant trophy less shameless franchise π€‘π€‘"
PBKS lead, RCB close behind in the IPL 2026 points table
Both teams RCB and PBKS have been impressive on the field this season. Punjab Kings currently sit at the top of the IPL 2026 points table with 13 points from eight matches, although their unbeaten run ended recently against Rajasthan Royals.
Meanwhile, RCB are right behind in second place with 12 points from eight matches. The defending champions will next play against Gujarat Titans on April 30.
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.jpg?type=mq "MI vs SRH pitch and weather report")
