Rajasthan Royals chose to bowl first after winning the toss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Match 16 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Both teams made strategic changes to their playing XIs with Brijesh Sharma replacing Tushar Deshpande for Rajasthan Royals, and Josh Hazlewood returning for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in place of Jacob Duffy to strengthen their bowling attack.
Riyan Parag, the Rajasthan Royals player, mentioned that despite expecting a dry pitch, recent rain might add some early moisture. He emphasized the team’s focus on playing strategic cricket and highlighted the importance of the openers maintaining their strong form. Captain Parag expressed the team’s intention to make the most of the pitch conditions by bowling first.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Rajat Patidar acknowledged the enthusiastic crowd support, likening the atmosphere to a home game for his team. He confirmed the inclusion of Josh Hazlewood in place of Jacob Duffy, praising Hazlewood’s experience and the positive impact he brings to the team. However, rain interrupted the proceedings, momentarily halting the game’s momentum.
