RCB vs LSG: Bengaluru Opt to Bowl, Josh Hazlewood Returns to Playing XI

The 23rd match of IPL-19 is being played between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The host team has won the toss and decided to bowl first, while this match presents a significant opportunity for RCB to climb to the top of the points table.

RCB Wins Toss and Announces Key Change

RCB won the toss and opted to field first. Captain Rajat Patidar announced that Josh Hazlewood has returned to the playing-11 for this crucial encounter. Hazlewood has been brought in to replace Jacob Duffy, while the inclusion of the experienced pacer is expected to bolster Bengaluru's bowling attack at their home ground.

Both teams' playing 11s

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar.

Lucknow Super Giants: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper/captain), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Mukul Chaudhary, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav.

No Changes for Lucknow Super Giants

On the other side, Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant has decided to stick with the same playing-11 from their previous match. LSG has opted for consistency in their lineup as they face the hosts in Bengaluru. Pant will lead the side with the same combination that featured in their last outing.

Home Ground Record and Points Table Stakes

Historically, RCB has not been able to defeat LSG in a single match at their home ground. The record at the Chinnaswamy Stadium remains a challenge for the hosts against the Lucknow franchise. In the current season, RCB is in strong form, holding the third position after winning 3 out of their 4 matches. A victory today would propel them to the number-1 spot in the points table. Meanwhile, Lucknow has secured 2 wins from their 4 matches so far.