IPL 2026 Rivalry Week: RCB Go On Top As Virat Kohli Shines; Navjot Singh Sidhu And Piyush Chawla Flag LSG’s Concerns

Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Lucknow Super Giants by five wickets in the TATA IPL 2026 and moved to the top of the points table. On Star Sports' 'Amul Cricket Live', JioStar experts Navjot Singh Sidhu and Piyush Chawla broke down key spells, batting issues and Rivalry Week stakes.

Sidhu, speaking on JioStar's coverage, praised Virat Kohli's latest fifty. He said Kohli, even at "20%, outperforms many at "100%. He highlighted Kohli's control over Mohammed Shami, through drives, pulls and cuts, and said his timing shows why he remains vital in the IPL.

On the Rishabh Pant-led LSG, Sidhu felt the team needed a deep review. He pointed to the misfiring top order and rare 50-run opening stands. He said talents like Markram, Pooran, Marsh and Pant lack

partnerships, and added that Pant is often dismissing himself, not the bowlers.

Sidhu also assessed today's Rivalry Week clash between the Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings. He warned teams to never rule Mumbai out. He recalled their six-match winning run last year after four early defeats and said Mumbai usually stay in the race for the top four.

Piyush Chawla, on JioStar's show, examined Krunal Pandya's bowling for RCB. He noted Krunal went for runs early but did not celebrate Mitchell Marsh's wicket, reflecting high standards. Chawla said Krunal's pace changes, angles and flight have helped RCB control the middle overs.

Chawla added that Krunal's smart spells are a major factor behind RCB topping the table this season. The experts also flagged Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings as a key Rivalry Week fixture, scheduled for 7:30 PM, live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.