IPL 2026: Will Rain Play Spoilsport in New Chandigarh? PBKS vs RR Weather Update

New Chandigarh: The 40th match of IPL 2026 will be played between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals this evening at Maharaja Yadvendra Singh Stadium. The weather in Punjab has been bad since morning and there has been light rain in many places. But in the afternoon the weather has almost cleared in New Chandigarh.

AccuWeather estimates that the night temperature will be around 27 degrees, with the wind blowing from the west at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour. Clouds will remain only up to 34 percent and there is no chance of rain. That means the audience will get to see the entire 40 over match.

How is the pitch?

The pitch of Mullanpur is of black soil. It seems that this season is a paradise for hard-working batsmen. In the first few overs, fast bowlers like Archer and Janssen may get some action, but as soon as the dew comes and goes, the spinners will definitely lose their grip. The ball will slip and the batsmen will be able to score a lot of runs. That is why the winner of the toss will choose to bowl first today.

What are the situations of both the teams?

Punjab Kings is currently the strongest team of IPL 2026. It is at the top of the points table after scoring 13 points in seven matches. Created a world record in T20 history by chasing 265 runs against Delhi in the last match. Under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, the opening pair of Priyansh Arya and Prabhasimran is creating terror. 

On the other hand, the story of Rajasthan Royals is the opposite. Had a great start and won the first four matches. Then lost three of the last four. Riyan Parag's team is under pressure. 15 year old Vaibhav Suryavanshi recently scored a century and is a ray of hope. But today there are questions on his fitness also.

Will stadium facilities become a relief?

Mullanpur Stadium has a modern drainage system, due to which the ground can dry quickly after the rain stops. In such a situation, despite some rain, the game can be resumed soon.

Can both teams change their strategy?

Considering the weather, the captain can decide to bowl first after winning the toss so that chasing the target is easier. Also, changes in team selection are also possible depending on the circumstances.

Will the audience get the full fight?

Looking at the situation, the hope is that the match can be completed, although there is a possibility of the game being stopped for some time. If it doesn't rain much, fans can get to see the full thrill.