IPL blockbuster weekend: What are the matches you shouldn’t miss? | Cricket News

It will be Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma this weekend in IPL (AP Photo)

NEW DELHI: The 2026 edition of the IPL is heating up, with teams beginning to settle into their rhythm and fine-tune their combinations. Two weeks into the tournament, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals appear the most balanced, boasting depth and consistent performers.The action begins with a blockbuster Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru clash on April 12.

This contest once again pits Rohit Sharma against Virat Kohli, two of India’s modern greats, while also spotlighting subplots like Hardik vs Krunal Pandya and Kohli’s face-off with Jasprit Bumrah.With MI leading the overall head-to-head 19–15 but RCB enjoying recent success, this clash promises fireworks.Former Indian cricketer and JioStar expert Sanjay Bangar noted, “Rivalry Week comes at a crucial juncture… What has stood out… is the emergence of these fearless prodigies… I’m looking forward to the contest between Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. It promises to be a fascinating battle.”Next up is Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (April 14), a rivalry marked by iconic moments. From KKR halting CSK’s title hat-trick in 2012 to CSK returning the favour in 2021, the history runs deep. Cheteshwar Pujara said, “CSK are in a transition phase, while SRH have one of the most explosive sides… This presents an opportunity for CSK’s heavyweights… This will be anyone’s game.”With the recent head-to-head tied at 3–3 and both teams looking to climb the table, this encounter carries added urgency.Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings (April 16) adds another layer of intrigue. Known for the unforgettable double Super Over in 2020, this fixture remains evenly poised at 17–17. All eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer, whose connection to Mumbai and impact for PBKS last season adds narrative depth to an already competitive clash.“We’re witnessing a fascinating trend… fearless prodigies are firmly seizing the spotlight… For me, the playmaker here is Iyer… expect a big performance… This one has all the makings of a thriller,” Harbhajan Singh added.Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals (April 18) brings its own storyline, with Virat Kohli’s Delhi roots and KL Rahul’s memorable ‘Kantara’ celebration at the Chinnaswamy last season intensifying the rivalry. Though RCB lead 20–12 overall, the contest in Bengaluru is expected to be tightly fought.Rounding off the weekend is Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings (April 18). While CSK dominated historically, SRH have recently gained the upper hand with their explosive batting unit. With the last four seasons evenly split, this Southern rivalry remains finely balanced.“KKR will need to up the ante, but CSK’s exciting young talent could easily turn the game… CSK are never a side you can afford to rule out,” Saba Karim remarked.

IPL’s blockbuster weekend