Fight For TOP SPOT; DC vs RCB, 46th Match Preview, Pitch Report and Weather Forecast of Delhi
DC vs RCB: As the heatwave engulfs Delhi with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius, the battle on the cricket field promises to be just as intense. In Match 46 of IPL 2024, Delhi Capitals (DC) will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 27, with both teams locked in a fierce contest for a top spot on the points table.
Both DC and RCB are coming into this game high on confidence after securing vital wins. DC bounced back against Lucknow Super Giants, showcasing their bowling depth by restricting them to 159 after a rapid start. Their chase was smooth and underlined the growing form of their middle order.
RCB, too, pulled off a hard-fought win against Rajasthan Royals, overcoming early pressure thanks to disciplined spells from their spinners and a composed penultimate over by Josh Hazlewood.
Delhi Capitals, led by Axar Patel, have been lifted by the form of KL Rahul, who has transitioned into a more aggressive T20 batter this season. With 323 runs at a strike rate of 153.80, Rahul has been a key figure at the top. The return of Faf du Plessis from injury further bolsters their lineup. Abishek Porel, Karun Nair, and Tristan Stubbs have also shown glimpses of match-winning ability.
Meanwhile, RCB have been a dominant force on the road, remaining unbeaten in away games this season. Virat Kohli remains their pillar, sitting third on the Orange Cap list with a stellar average of 65.33. Kohli’s record at the Kotla is formidable – 483 runs in ten innings at an average of 69 and a strike rate of 145.5, his best at any venue with more than five appearances.
DC vs RCB Head-to-Head
In 32 encounters so far, RCB have had the upper hand with 19 wins against DC’s 12, and one match ending without a result. However, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the contest is closer, with RCB winning six to DC’s four.
Since 2021, DC have struggled against RCB, winning just two out of seven meetings. This stat will surely fuel DC’s motivation to set the record straight in front of their home crowd.
Arun Jaitley Stadium Pitch Report
The Arun Jaitley Stadium has been a paradise for batters this season. The average first-innings total in 2024 stands at a staggering 235, the highest across all IPL venues. Though the pitch had a green tinge on the eve of the match, it is expected to favor stroke-making with its even bounce.
The fair grass covering might take reverse swing out of the equation, emphasizing batting and conventional seam movement early on. Expect a high-scoring affair once again, but with quality bowlers on both sides, breakthroughs at key moments could still turn the tide.
Delhi Weather Forecast
Delhi's weather is expected to be unforgiving, with temperatures exceeding 40°C even during the evening. The heatwave alert remains in effect, and players will need to manage their energy and hydration smartly. Thankfully, there’s no forecast of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted game.