NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru all-rounder Tim David sparked a brief moment of tension with the on-field officials during their IPL 2026 encounter against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. What began as a harmless bit of fun after a big hit turned into a slightly awkward exchange before everything was smoothed over.
David’s playful act after the big hit
- The incident happened in the 18th over of RCB’s innings when David launched a massive six off Hardik Pandya, clearing the boundary over deep mid-wicket.
- The strike was so forceful that it changed the condition of the ball, which had also become wet, prompting the umpires to request a replacement.
- As the used-ball box was brought out, David picked up one of the balls and started handling it casually.
- Even after repeated instructions from the umpire to return it, the Australian continued to toy with the ball for a short spell, visibly frustrating the official.
- After a brief pause, David handed the ball back, and the atmosphere on the field quickly returned to normal.
- Rohit Sharma then added to the levity by sharing a light-hearted moment with David, with laughter spreading among players as the incident settled.
With the theatrics out of the way, RCB’s batting had set the tone earlier in the match. Their top order delivered a dominant display, with captain Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt and Virat Kohli all reaching half-century landmarks to help the defending champions post 240/4—also noted as the second-highest team score of the season.
Salt was the aggressor from the start, smashing 78 off 36 balls. His innings featured six fours and six sixes, giving RCB a strong platform. Kohli, meanwhile, provided steady support, contributing 50 off 38 deliveries in a more controlled role.
Together, Salt and Kohli built a fluent opening partnership worth 120 runs before Shardul Thakur delivered the breakthrough for Mumbai Indians.
Patidar then carried that momentum forward in a rapid burst, striking 53 off just 20 balls. His knock included four boundaries and five maximums as RCB underlined their intent and pushed their total to a commanding position.
In response, Mumbai Indians managed 222/5, but it wasn’t enough to chase down the target. RCB ultimately won the match by 18 runs.
