Top News

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to face off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match No. 61 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 this Sunday, May 17, at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. 

The Kings are coming into this match on a rough patch, having lost five games in a row after starting the season strong with seven unbeaten matches. This will be their third home game in Dharamshala, but unfortunately, they've already dropped both previous matches against DC and MI. With 13 points from 12 games, they really need a win here to boost their chances of making it to the playoffs and possibly finishing in the top two. 

On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are riding high after a commanding victory over their rivals, Kolkata Knight Riders, in Raipur. They currently sit at the top of the table with 16 points. A win against PBKS would officially secure their spot in the playoffs as defending champions. 

The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala is not just beautiful; it’s also known for being one of the best batting venues in the country. So far in IPL 2026, the stadium has hosted two matches, and in all four innings, teams have managed to score over 200 runs, showcasing the pitch's batting-friendly nature.

The team that wins the toss will likely choose to chase the target. However, since the match is in the afternoon, there’s a chance that spinners could play a significant role.

Also Read | Why Virat Kohli Believes IPL Must Help Indian Cricket