RCB return home carrying hope and scars, aim to rebuild identity in IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally clinched their maiden IPL title last year, but celebrations were tragically marred by a stadium stampede. After a nine-month hiatus and significant stadium upgrades, cricket returns to Chinnaswamy. RCB, now defending champions, face challenges with key player absences but aim for a balanced season, balancing title defence with future planning.