Royal Challengers Bengaluru have won eight matches and currently top the points table with 16 points. In their last match, they defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by six wickets, successfully chasing a target of 193 runs and almost securing their place in the playoffs. Virat Kohli was the standout performer for RCB, scoring a match-winning 105 runs at a strike rate of 175.
Vs
HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala
17 May 2026 03:30 PM
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings, after winning their first six matches, lost the next five games and currently stand fourth in the points table with 13 points. They lost their previous game by six wickets against Mumbai Indians, failing to defend a target of 201 runs. Two playoff-chasing heavyweights collide at one of the most scenic and explosive batting venues in India.
PBKS vs RCB Match 61: Complete Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 61 |
| Tournament | IPL 2026 (TATA Indian Premier League) |
| Date | Sunday, May 17, 2026 |
| Time | 3:30 PM IST |
| Toss Time | 3:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar App and Website |
PBKS vs RCB Head-to-Head Record in IPL
RCB leads the head-to-head record 19 to 18 across 37 IPL matches. This is the most closely contested rivalry in the tournament’s history. PBKS held the lead for years, but RCB’s three wins in the 2025 playoffs and the Final flipped the script. The most recent chapter saw RCB beat PBKS by 6 runs in the IPL 2025 Final at Ahmedabad to win their maiden title.
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 38 (including IPL 2026) |
| RCB Wins | 19 |
| PBKS Wins | 18 |
| No Result | 1 |
| RCB Win % | ~51.4% |
| Most Recent Meeting | IPL 2025 Final (RCB won by 6 runs) |
| Last 5 Meetings | RCB won 3, PBKS won 1 |
| PBKS 2026 Form | 6W 5L (4th, 13 pts, lost 5 in a row) |
| RCB 2026 Form | 8W 4L (1st, 16 pts, won 3 of last 5) |
RCB have been noticeably stronger in recent seasons, winning both matches in 2024 and three out of four in 2025, including the final. The rivalry reached its peak in the IPL 2025 Final, where RCB defeated PBKS by 6 runs to win their maiden IPL title.
HPCA Stadium Pitch Report for PBKS vs RCB
The pitch at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala, is batting-friendly, offering excellent pace, bounce, and carry, which often results in high-scoring T20 matches.
There are some patches where the ball keeps low and slows down after pitching, and there are areas that offer true pace and bounce. The venue has seen some rain over the past week, and there will be moisture under the surface. The spinners have had a limited role here, and it is the quicker bowlers who will need to get the job done.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pitch Type | Flat, batting-friendly; good pace and carry |
| Avg 1st Innings Score (IPL at this venue) | 186 |
| Avg 2nd Innings Score | 166 |
| Avg Match Total (all T20s) | 380-410 |
| Win Batting First | 44% |
| Win Bowling First | 56% |
| Pace Bowling | 65% of wickets taken by pacers; high bounce suits seam |
| Spin Factor | Limited; spinners have a reduced role at this ground |
| Dew Factor | Afternoon match means no dew; conditions balanced |
| Key Insight | Afternoon start reduces dew impact; 185-200 is a competitive par score |
Dharamsala is a high-ceiling batting ground. Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s 21 wickets at Economy 7.46 and Josh Hazlewood’s best figures of 4/12 make RCB’s pace duo the standout bowling picks even at a high-scoring venue. This is a 185-210 match at this venue.
Dharamsala Weather Forecast for PBKS vs RCB Match
| Parameter | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature (Match Time) | 22-24 degrees Celsius |
| Humidity | 35-48% |
| Rain Chance | 13-25% |
| Wind Speed | Light mountain breeze |
| Dew Factor | Not applicable; afternoon start |
| Conditions | Clear and sunny; cool mountain air |
Dharamsala is expected to witness clear and sunny conditions during the clash. The temperature should stay around 22 degrees Celsius, while humidity levels are likely to remain near 48 percent. Only a small chance of rain is forecast, and dew is not expected to affect the match because of the afternoon start.
PBKS vs RCB Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss would bowl first. In both games played here in IPL 2026, the chasing team comfortably won the match.
Recent matches at Dharamsala have produced first-innings scores above 200. If RCB bat first, they could target a score around 205-215. Punjab Kings may aim for a total between 190-205 if they bat first.
Toss Prediction: Bowl first. Both Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar are expected to prefer chasing at Dharamsala, where the conditions remain consistent across both innings given the afternoon start and the absence of dew.
Key Players to Watch in PBKS vs RCB Match
Here are the Key Players to Watch out from both teams :
For Punjab Kings
1. Cooper Connolly (Batter/All-rounder)
Cooper Connolly has strengthened Punjab’s top order with 436 runs at a strike rate above 162, regularly attacking fast bowlers during the powerplay overs. He has been PBKS’s most consistent batter all season with a proven big-innings ceiling.
2. Priyansh Arya (Opener)
Priyansh Arya has scored 342 runs at a strike rate of 226.49, the highest strike rate of any 300-plus run scorer in IPL 2026. He is an explosive opener who faces maximum balls and can win fantasy matches inside 6 overs alone.
3. Arshdeep Singh (Fast Bowler)
Arshdeep Singh has taken 13 wickets at Economy 9.92, with a best of 3/22. His left-arm swing with the new ball remains a genuine powerplay threat at his home ground, and his wicket-taking ability outweighs any economy concerns on this surface.
4. Shreyas Iyer (Captain/Batter)
Shreyas Iyer has scored 396 runs at an average of 49.50, anchoring Punjab’s middle order and handling spin effectively in pressure situations. He is PBKS’s most experienced match-winner in tight situations.
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru
1. Virat Kohli (Batter)
Virat Kohli has scored 484 runs in 12 matches at an average of 53.78. He controls RCB’s innings and dominates powerplay bowling attacks. He scored 92 off 47 balls at this exact venue in IPL 2024, which remains the highest individual score in any IPL innings at Dharamsala.
2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Fast Bowler)
Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads RCB’s bowling attack with 21 wickets at Economy 7.46, making him the most economical and one of the highest wicket-taking bowlers in IPL 2026. His new-ball swing in Dharamsala’s cool mountain air is devastating in the powerplay.
3. Rajat Patidar (Captain/Batter)
Rajat Patidar has delivered crucial middle-order acceleration with 326 runs at a strike rate of 195.20, one of the joint-highest among any batter with 300-plus runs in IPL 2026. Dharamsala’s high altitude, quick outfield, and flat surface are built for his aggressive power-hitting.
4. Josh Hazlewood (Fast Bowler)
Josh Hazlewood has taken 10 wickets, with his best figures of 4/12 coming at this very venue. Dharamsala’s pace-dominant surface suits his steep bounce and back-of-length accuracy, making him one of the most dangerous bowlers in this fixture.
PBKS vs RCB Probable Playing XIs
Here are the Probable Playing XI of both Teams:
Punjab Kings Predicted XI
| # | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prabhsimran Singh (WK) | Opener |
| 2 | Priyansh Arya | Opener |
| 3 | Cooper Connolly | Top Order |
| 4 | Shreyas Iyer (C) | Middle Order |
| 5 | Suryansh Shedge | Middle Order |
| 6 | Azmatullah Omarzai | All-rounder |
| 7 | Shashank Singh | Finisher |
| 8 | Marco Jansen | Pace All-rounder |
| 9 | Ben Dwarshuis | Fast Bowler |
| 10 | Arshdeep Singh | Fast Bowler |
| 11 | Yuzvendra Chahal | Leg Spinner |
Prabhsimran Singh has struggled for form in recent matches and could find it difficult against the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood at the top of the order.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Predicted XI
| # | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phil Salt / Jacob Bethell | Opener |
| 2 | Virat Kohli | Top Order |
| 3 | Rajat Patidar (C) | Middle Order |
| 4 | Jitesh Sharma (WK) | Middle Order |
| 5 | Tim David | Finisher |
| 6 | Venkatesh Iyer | All-rounder |
| 7 | Krunal Pandya | Spin All-rounder |
| 8 | Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Fast Bowler |
| 9 | Rasikh Salam Dar | Fast Bowler |
| 10 | Jacob Duffy | Fast Bowler |
| 11 | Josh Hazlewood | Fast Bowler |
The middle order has delivered whenever the situation has demanded and has been a big factor in RCB’s success. Rajat Patidar, and Tim David have played well throughout the tournament. The team also has useful all-rounders in Krunal Pandya and Venkatesh Iyer, who can play the big shots during the death overs.
Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru Will Win This Match
Table-Topping Form and Confidence
RCB currently lead the points table with 16 points and are closing in on a top-two finish. In their last match, Virat Kohli scored a brilliant century to guide RCB to victory against KKR on a tough pitch.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Unmatched Purple Cap Form
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has picked up 22 wickets in 12 games and was the best bowler for RCB in three of the last four games. Since the pitch is likely to help the seamers, he is expected to bowl a decisive spell at Dharamsala.
Dominant Recent Head-to-Head Record
RCB hold a 7-3 record in the last 10 meetings against PBKS. Based on recent form, Royal Challengers Bengaluru appear to be the stronger side heading into Match 61.
Kohli’s Specific Dharamsala Record
RCB’s 241/7 in IPL 2024 at Dharamsala was powered by Virat Kohli’s 92 off 47 balls, which remains the highest individual score in any IPL innings at this venue. On a small ground with short boundaries, RCB batted aggressively through all 20 overs and won by 60 runs.
Why Punjab Kings Could Still Pull Off a Win
Home Advantage at Dharamsala
Punjab Kings have a slight advantage due to their familiarity with Dharamsala conditions. Their pace attack, led by Arshdeep Singh, is built for the good bounce and carry on offer here, and the home crowd can be a significant factor in a high-pressure match.
Cooper Connolly’s Explosive Ceiling
Cooper Connolly has scored 415 runs at an average of 51.87 and a strike rate of 168.01 with one century, making him PBKS’s most consistent batter all season. His top-order position guarantees volume on a flat Dharamsala surface and he has a proven big-innings ceiling in pressure situations.
PBKS Batting Depth Can Overwhelm Any Attack
Punjab Kings will aim to use the pace-friendly conditions of Dharamsala to their advantage. Their batting depth, with Priyansh Arya, Connolly, Shreyas Iyer, and Azmatullah Omarzai all capable of match-winning contributions, gives them the ability to post totals that put any team under pressure.
Priyansh Arya’s Match-Winning Powerplay Potential
Priyansh Arya’s strike rate of 226.49 is the highest of any 300-plus run scorer in IPL 2026. He is an essential differential with the highest batting ceiling in this fixture, and a blistering powerplay from him can set the tone that even RCB’s top order cannot match.
PBKS vs RCB Betting Odds and Win Probability
| Team | Betting Odds | Win Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 1.70 – 1.80 | 56-65% |
| Punjab Kings | 2.00 – 2.20 | 35-44% |
Disclaimer: Odds are indicative and sourced from publicly available platforms at the time of writing. They may change closer to match time.
PBKS vs RCB Match 61 Prediction: Who Will Win Today?
Predicted Winner: Royal Challengers Bengaluru
| Factor | RCB Edge | PBKS Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Points Table | 1st, 16 pts, chasing top-two spot | 4th, 13 pts, in playoff hunt |
| Current Form | Won 3 of last 5; beat KKR by 6 wkts | Lost 5 consecutive matches |
| Head-to-Head | 19 wins in 37 all-time; 3 wins in last 5 | 18 wins in 37; strong home record at neutral venues |
| Top Batter | Kohli (484 runs, Avg 53.78); 92 at this ground in 2024 | Connolly (436 runs, SR 168.01) |
| Explosive Wildcard | Rajat Patidar (326 runs, SR 195.20) | Priyansh Arya (342 runs, SR 226.49) |
| Top Bowler | Bhuvneshwar (22 wkts, Econ 7.46) + Hazlewood (4/12 at this ground) | Arshdeep Singh (13 wkts, home conditions) |
| Middle Order | Tim David + Krunal Pandya + Venkatesh Iyer | Shreyas Iyer (396 runs, Avg 49.50) |
| Home Ground | Away side | Home conditions at Dharamsala |
| Pitch Suitability | Pace attack thrives at high-bounce Dharamsala | Familiarity with local conditions |
| Motivation | Confirm top-two playoff spot | Must win to stay in playoff contention |
Royal Challengers Bengaluru hold a slight edge in the overall IPL rivalry with 19 wins compared to Punjab Kings’ 18 victories in 37 matches. RCB have also dominated the recent meetings by winning four of the last five games against PBKS, including three victories during IPL 2025.
Predicted Winner: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Win Probability: RCB 56-65% vs PBKS 35-44% Predicted Margin: RCB to win by 15-20 runs (if batting first) or 5-6 wickets (if chasing).
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Final Verdict
Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru enter this Dharamsala clash with completely different momentum in IPL 2026. RCB currently lead the points table with 16 points and are closing in on a top-two finish, while PBKS have slipped into a tense playoff battle after five straight defeats.
RCB have been one of the most consistent teams over the last couple of seasons, and most of their players are in good form. Punjab’s bowling has been ordinary, and that could cost them the game. While PBKS has a strong batting lineup, the recent loss of momentum and confidence in its bowling could prove costly.
The headline battle is Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood vs Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly in the powerplay on one side, and Virat Kohli vs Arshdeep Singh on the other. If PBKS win that powerplay battle with the bat and post 200-plus, their home conditions give them a fighting chance. If RCB’s seam attack takes early wickets and Kohli goes deep, it is very difficult to see Punjab finding a way through.
Expect a high-scoring afternoon thriller in the mountains, but expect RCB to have just enough class and form to get across the line when it matters.
