IPL 2026 Purple Cap: Bhuvneshwar Kumar surges ahead after record-breaking spell

Powerplay carnage sets up emphatic win
The match itself was defined by a brutal new-ball spell as Bhuvneshwar and Josh Hazlewood combined to dismantle DC’s batting line-up. The hosts were left reeling at 13 for 6 in the powerplay, with Bhuvneshwar striking early by castling debutant Sahil Parakh and later removing Tristan Stubbs and skipper Axar Patel.

Hazlewood complemented him perfectly, returning with figures of 4 for 12 as DC collapsed to 75 in 16.3 overs.

Reflecting on his performance, Bhuvneshwar credited the conditions and early swing. “When the ball swings and you get a few wickets upfront, it makes it easier,” he said, adding that the team was slightly surprised by the assistance on offer but made the most of it. He also joked about not pushing for an extra over due to fatigue, saying he was “happy with three overs” considering the heat.

Chasing a modest target, RCB completed the job with ease in just 6.3 overs. Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal ensured there were no hiccups, with Kohli sealing the win in style with consecutive sixes.