Kohli suffered an ankle injury during the match played against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede. However, the good thing is that he has reached Bengaluru and has also practiced in the nets. He did not see any particular problem while batting but the team management has not yet declared him completely fit.

Virat’s injury increases RCB’s worries
Kohli’s play is very important for RCB, because along with Phil Salt, he is giving a strong start to the team. If they do not play then the team balance may deteriorate. In such a situation, Venkatesh Iyer can be tried in the opening as an alternative, who has played only one match this season and scored 29 runs in 15 balls.

LSG’s performance was mixed
Talking about the points table, RCB have made a great start and are in a strong position after winning three out of their first four matches. On the other hand, the performance of LSG captained by Rishabh Pant has been mixed. The team has won two out of four matches and currently remains at the bottom of the table.

The biggest challenge for LSG is the record at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The team has lost both the matches here so far. In 2023, it came close, but did not win, while in 2024, it had to face defeat by 28 runs. Whereas RCB has shown dominance on this ground by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings this season.

If Lucknow has to register victory then Mohammed Shami will have to do wonders with the new ball. His economy this season is 6.25 and he has bowled well in the powerplay. They can change the course of the match by taking early wickets, but they will need support from the other end as well.

RCB heavy in head to head
RCB also has the upper hand in head-to-head statistics. Bengaluru has won 4 out of the last 6 matches. Now it remains to be seen which way Kohli’s fitness and LSG’s bowling will turn the outcome of this match.