In the high-voltage IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, Jofra Archer delivered a thunderous opening over that sent shockwaves through the RCB dugout.
Rajasthan Royals, electing to field first, handed the new ball to their pace spearhead Archer, known for his express speed and lethal bounce.
Phil Salt, RCB's explosive opener, strode to the crease alongside Virat Kohli, expecting fireworks in the powerplay. The very first ball of the innings from Archer was a brute-a sharp, rising delivery on middle stump that climbed viciously off the surface. Salt, caught off guard by the steep bounce and pace, had no answer. The ball pinged near the handle of his bat, inducing a faint
edge that flew straight to wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, who completed a straightforward catch.
The stadium erupted as Archer wheeled away in celebration, arms outstretched, his trademark energy lighting up the night. RCB were stunned at 0/1 in 0.1 overs. The early dismissal of their in-form aggressor Salt shifted the momentum instantly, putting pressure on Kohli and the middle order right from the start. Archer's fiery spell continued, troubling the batters with his raw pace and movement.
𝙍𝙄𝙂𝙃𝙏 𝙊𝙉 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙈𝙊𝙉𝙀𝙔 👊
🎥 First ball of the innings and Jofra Archer strikes with a fiery bouncer 🔥
Perfect start for #RR 🩷
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/X76bJjmq1j#TATAIPL | #KhelBindaas | #RRvRCB | @rajasthanroyals pic.twitter.com/T2pPoam82o- IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 10, 2026
Despite losing a wicket in the very first delivery, RCB have managed to shrug it off and make a stormy start. Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli have started with purpose and have scored superbly. Padikkal finally got dismissed on 14 off 7, but Kohli continues to bat as he is on 27 off 12 deliveries.
