Royal Challengers Bengaluru speedster Josh Hazlewood, awarded Player of the Match for a decisive spell, said he felt “in good shape” as his side beat Lucknow Super Giants by five wickets in IPL 2026. Speaking after the win at Bengaluru, the Australian pacer pointed to how quickly he and the team assessed the pitch and opponent before adjusting their lengths on a slower surface.
Hazlewood on form, conditions and early adjustments
Hazlewood credited his rhythm to preparation and adaptation, explaining that the match demanded a specific approach on the Bengaluru wicket.
- He said he was feeling much better, describing himself as “in good shape” for the contest.
- Hazlewood stressed the need to gauge the opposition and match conditions early, noting that the pitch played slower than usual.
- He added that on such a surface, the key was to hit the right length consistently.
During the presentation, Hazlewood also discussed the craft behind his variations, particularly working on slower deliveries to remain effective in T20 cricket.
- He said he wants to develop “funky” options in his bowling.
- Hazlewood highlighted ongoing work on slower balls to keep improving as the tournament progresses.
He further underlined that one of RCB’s strengths in the game was reading the scenario quickly, which helped the franchise keep Lucknow to a below-par total.
- Hazlewood said summing up conditions as early as possible is a major advantage for RCB.
Looking ahead, the fast bowler expressed confidence about his fitness and availability, indicating he expects to keep featuring regularly as the season continues.
- He said the plan is to keep playing, with the schedule offering a reasonable run of fixtures.
RCB’s chase: 147 reached with 29 balls to spare
RCB, the defending champions, delivered a commanding five-wicket win over LSG in Bengaluru, successfully chasing a modest target of 147 with 29 balls left. The chase was anchored by Virat Kohli’s fluent innings of 49, while Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma provided the quick bursts needed to close out the match comfortably.
- RCB chased 147 successfully, winning by five wickets with 29 balls remaining.
- Virat Kohli top-scored for RCB with 49.
- Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma played rapid cameos to maintain momentum.
LSG’s innings: collapse after being asked to bat first
Earlier, Lucknow’s batting spell turned into a collapse after RCB opted to bowl first. LSG were dismissed for 146, with the innings derailed despite Mitchell Marsh’s determined 40.
- LSG were bowled out for 146 after being put in to bat.
- Mitchell Marsh scored a fighting 40, but regular wickets disrupted the flow.
- The innings lacked momentum, leading to the collapse.
Key bowling contributions for RCB
Rasikh Salam Dar stood out with a four-wicket haul, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood provided important support to keep pressure on the batting side throughout.
- Rasikh Salam Dar took four wickets.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood also contributed with crucial spells.
Injured retirement and further setbacks
LSG faced additional disruption during their innings as Rishabh Pant retired hurt briefly and later fell for a cheap score. Throughout, RCB’s disciplined bowling ensured Lucknow remained under pressure from ball one.
- Rishabh Pant retired hurt briefly before later getting out cheaply.
- RCB’s bowling kept LSG under sustained pressure.
Points table impact: RCB top, LSG seventh
With the win, RCB strengthened their position in the tournament standings. The defending champions moved to the top of the points table with eight points from five matches, while LSG slipped to seventh place with four points from four games.
- RCB: top of the table with eight points in five matches.
- LSG: seventh in the standings with four points in four matches.
