NEW DELHI: The start of the IPL 2026 match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Guwahati has been affected by rain, with heavy showers delaying the toss. While rain is expected to ease later, overcast conditions could still play a role during the game.

If delays continue, there is still a window to complete a shortened match, with the cut-off time for a five-over game set at around 10:56 PM IST.Guwahati, usually lively, appeared unusually calm due to state elections, with roads empty and less buzz around the IPL matches.

According to multiple reports, the stadium turnout has also been lower than expected, even for big teams. However, some dedicated fans still gathered, many wearing jerseys of Virat Kohli, hoping to see their favourite stars. The pre-match atmosphere was subdued, with several key players skipping practice while bench players took to the nets. Both teams come into this match in strong form, battling for the top spot in the standings. RCB aim to build on their recent momentum, while RR are focused on continuing their resurgence. Their head-to-head record is close, with RCB holding a slight edge.The match, scheduled for 7:30 PM IST at the ACA Stadium, is expected to go ahead despite earlier rain interruptions. A key highlight will be the contest between RCB’s pace attack and RR’s opening batters in Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. With both teams in top, unbeaten form, this game could decide who takes the early lead in the tournament, ending one side’s unbeaten run as IPL action in Guwahati wraps up.