Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a fighting total of **201/8** in 20 overs against Rajasthan Royals in Match 16 of the TATA IPL 2026 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. After a shaky start that saw them slip to 94/6 at one stage, RCB captain **Rajat Patidar** delivered a gutsy half-century to steady the ship and push the score past 200.
Patidar top-scored with a brisk **63 off 40 balls**, studded with 4 fours and 4 sixes, before holing out to Donovan Ferreira off Sandeep Sharma in the 18th over. His knock came at a crucial juncture when RCB were reeling after early setbacks, including the dismissals of Phil Salt (0), Devdutt Padikkal (14), and Virat Kohli (32 off 16).
The middle order struggled initially, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals. However, a late flourish from Venkatesh Iyer (29* off 15) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (9*) helped RCB finish strongly, with the final over yielding valuable runs, including a six from Iyer.
RR will now need **202 runs** to secure victory in what promises to be an exciting high-scoring chase under the lights. The Royals, who have started the season strongly, face a stern test against RCB’s bowling attack led by the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and others.
Patidar’s innings not only rescued RCB from a potential collapse but also highlighted his growing stature as captain. The match remains finely poised as RR prepare to chase down the target.
