RCB Faces Delhi Capitals in Crucial IPL Matchup

BENGALURU, India — The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 24th match of the IPL 2025 season on April 10. With a rocky start to the home games, RCB is hoping to turn their fortunes around against a formidable DC squad that is currently unbeaten.

Since the 2020 IPL season, RCB has shown promising starts, winning at least three out of their first four games. However, their aspirations for a top-tier finish faltered in 2021 when they lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on net run rate, despite notching nine victories in 14 matches. The absence of home grounds during the pandemic posed significant challenges, leaving RCB still seeking consistent home success.

The M Chinnaswamy Stadium has often been described as a “bowlers’ nightmare” due to its pitch conditions and short boundaries. Historically, RCB has struggled with their bowling lineup, but recent changes suggest a revival this season. The team returns to the Chinnaswamy seeking to capitalize on their substantial improvements amidst a series of late playoff runs.

DC’s schedule has presented an opportunity for preparation, with their players enjoying at least four days between matches. This has fostered a relaxed atmosphere within the squad, who are riding high on a winning streak. Led by the unyielding Mitchell Starc, DC has shown remarkable depth, with no individual batter having scored more than 92 runs, instead demonstrating a well-rounded team performance.

RCB, on the other hand, has seen revitalized success through their middle-order partnerships, particularly during their recent match against Gujarat Titans (GT), where they rallied from a dismal 42 for 4 to post 169 for 8, with 120 runs coming in the closing overs.

Star players, including Jitesh Sharma and Liam Livingstone, have been instrumental, with all three middle-order batters boasting averages over 40 and strike rates above 150. However, they face a significant test against DC’s strong spin attack, which boasts an impressive six wickets at an economy rate of 6.00.

RCB captain, Rajat Patidar, and star batters like Virat Kohli are set to play crucial roles as RCB seeks its first home victory this season. Meanwhile, DC will evaluate the fitness of their key players, including Faf du Plessis, who missed their last match due to a groin issue.

“He certainly looks like he’s moving around a lot better,” said DC assistant coach Matthew Mott regarding du Plessis’ recovery. His potential return could significantly enhance DC’s chances of extending their winning streak.

With RCB holding the second-lowest win percentage at home in IPL history, this match offers a pivotal opportunity for redemption. Fans will watch closely to see if RCB can leverage their newfound momentum against an experienced and resilient DC side.