The third game of IPL 2022 will be between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings. The game will take place on March 27th at 7:30 pm in the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy Stadium in Mumbai. In this article, we take a look at the predicted Royal Challengers Bangalore playing XI for their first game against Punjab Kings.
Openers: Faf du Plessis (C) and Anuj Rawat
Captain Faf du Plessis and Anuj Rawat are likely to be the openers in the Royal Challengers Bangalore playing XI for their first game against Punjab Kings. Based on Mike Hesson’s interviews and the practice games, it is almost certain that the duo will open the batting. That said, it would not be a surprise if Virat appears at this slot or maybe even an unexpected name like David Willey or Harshal Patel.
Middle-Order: Virat Kohli, Mahipal Lomror and Dinesh Karthik (WK)
For the balance of the team, Virat Kohli could play at No.3. Since Glenn Maxwell is absent, Virat Kohli and new joinee Mahipal Lomror should take care of the duties in the middle-overs. Dinesh Karthik is a brilliant pace hitter and hence, he will have his task cut out at the end of the batting innings.
All-Rounders: Sherfane Rutherford, Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey, Shahbaz Ahmed and Harshal Patel
RCB will boast of a long all-rounder’s unit for the entire season. This leaves them with a terrific balance. For the first few games, Sherfane Rutherford is likely to play in Maxwell’s unavailability. The rest of this department will have more to do with the ball. However, they should also contribute with the willow.
It will be interesting to see how Wanindu Hasaranga gets used in the batting department. RCB could think of playing him in the middle-overs and giving the license to go all out. Shahbaz Ahmed will be the second spinner in the XI and could have a role to play with the bat. Harshal will be the main man at the death while Willey is set to play until Josh Hazlewood returns.
Bowlers: Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj has been one of the most improved bowlers in recent years. He was retained by RCB ahead of IPL 2022 Auctions. Like last season, he will lead the attack this year, as well.
