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Hardik Pandya’s Fitness in Focus Ahead of Must-Win Match for Mumbai Indians
IPL 2026, RCB vs MI Playing 11: The 54th match of IPL 2026 will be played between RCB and MI at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur. While RCB is aiming for a top-2 finish, this is Mumbai's last chance to salvage their season. Learn about the probable playing 11s for both teams.
The excitement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has now reached Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. After 10 years, an IPL match is set to be held at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium. The most significant clash on Sunday will be between the two strongest teams playing in the tournament, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
The critical issue in the upcoming clash for the Mumbai Indians team will be whether the team’s captain, Hardik Pandya, is fit enough to participate in the game. Hardik, who was unable to participate in the previous game due to his injury, has traveled to Raipur with the team. However, if he participates in training on Sunday, then it will be clear that he is fit to take part in the game.
The road is not easy for defending champions RCB either. The team is missing their star opener Phil Salt, who will also miss today's match due to a finger injury. Under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, the team has lost their last two matches and will now be looking to return to the top two. The Raipur ground is known for its large boundaries and a slow pitch. Spinners are expected to find good assistance here. The team winning the toss may choose to bowl first, as the effect of dew at night can change the game.
