Former India batter Deep Dasgupta expects Royal Challengers Bengaluru to enter their IPL 2026 meeting with Delhi Capitals on Monday with the advantage, pointing mainly to Delhi’s recent drop in confidence and Bengaluru’s well-rounded momentum in the ongoing season. Speaking as a JioStar expert on Star Sports, Dasgupta singled out Delhi’s latest outing—an emphatic loss to Punjab Kings—as the clearest signal of their current vulnerability.
Why Dasgupta backs RCB over DC
Dasgupta said RCB should feel confident heading into the contest because Delhi appear short on self-belief after their defeat in the previous game. He highlighted that the manner of the loss, rather than just the result, has been a concern for Delhi’s group.
- He believes Bengaluru hold the edge due to Delhi being low on confidence after losing their most recent match to Punjab Kings.
- He described Delhi’s defeat as a major factor shaping the upcoming matchup.
Delhi’s batting big, but bowling and fielding questioned
While Dasgupta acknowledged that Delhi’s batting in that Punjab Kings game produced a massive total, he argued the deeper issues lay elsewhere—specifically in their bowling execution and overall fielding standards.
He referenced KL Rahul’s standout innings, saying the captain’s unbeaten 152 proved enormous but still could not steer Delhi to victory. Rahul’s mammoth knock ultimately went in vain as Delhi Capitals were beaten by six wickets by Punjab Kings, after Punjab pulled off a record-breaking successful chase of 265 at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday.
- KL Rahul made an unbeaten 152, but Delhi still lost by six wickets.
- Punjab chased 265 at Arun Jaitley Stadium in a record-setting effort.
- Dasgupta said Delhi’s ability to post 260-plus reflected their batting quality.
- He also stressed that Delhi could not defend 264, which he felt would dent morale.
- He pointed to Delhi’s bowling as not being up to standard and their fielding as subpar.
RCB’s all-round strength—and a key selection question
Turning to RCB, Dasgupta praised their current brand of cricket, with particular emphasis on their bowling showing signs of sharpness and control. He framed Bengaluru’s campaign as balanced, suggesting they are contributing from multiple departments rather than relying on one facet of the game.
However, Dasgupta also flagged a potential concern: the absence of opener Phil Salt. At the same time, he suggested that Jacob Bethell could be the solution, especially given his rise in T20 cricket following his impact in the T20 World Cup.
- Dasgupta praised RCB’s strong overall form, especially their bowling performances.
- He said the only potential worry is Phil Salt not being available at the top.
- He believes Jacob Bethell can step up in Salt’s absence.
- He added that Bethell forming a left-hand and right-hand opening partnership with Virat Kohli could bring benefits for RCB.
League position and what’s at stake for RCB
Dasgupta’s view comes with RCB also carrying momentum in the standings. Defending champions Bengaluru are placed second on the points table with 10 points, and they will be keen to improve their position as the tournament continues.
- Defending champions RCB are currently second in the points table with 10 points.
- They will look to consolidate their standing as the league progresses.
