Bengaluru, April 15: In the 23rd match of IPL 2026, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. A victory for LSG could propel them into the top four of the IPL 2026 points table, while RCB could claim the top spot with a win.

However, concerns loom over RCB’s star player Virat Kohli, who is dealing with a knee injury. Although he was seen during the team’s training session, it remains uncertain whether he will play in the match.

Ahead of the game, LSG shared a video on social media showing Kohli and Kane Williamson sharing a warm moment. Williamson is part of LSG’s support staff, and the video showcased their camaraderie, with Kohli also seen embracing LSG captain Rishabh Pant. Notably, Kohli was spotted with a strap on his left ankle, which raises questions about his availability for the match against LSG.

Kohli has been in excellent form this season, scoring 179 runs in four matches. His absence would be a significant blow for RCB, who have won three out of their four matches so far. They defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by six wickets, Chennai Super Kings by 43 runs, and Mumbai Indians by 18 runs, but faced a six-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals. A win in this match could see RCB rise to the top of the points table.

On the other hand, LSG currently sits in seventh place on the points table. A win against RCB could elevate them into the top four. LSG has won two and lost two of their four matches played so far.

LSG began their IPL 2026 campaign on April 1 against Delhi Capitals, suffering a six-wicket defeat. However, they bounced back with consecutive victories against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders. Their chance for a hat-trick of wins was thwarted by a loss to Gujarat Titans, leaving them outside the top four.

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