Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals will meet in a crucial IPL 2026 encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, with both teams battling to keep their playoff hopes alive. Delhi Capitals kept their slim qualification chances intact with an important chase in Dharamsala, but their campaign has remained inconsistent throughout the season. Their struggles at home have been particularly severe, with the side managing just one win in six matches at the venue and losing five successive games in New Delhi.DC vs RR pitch reportThe pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium is expected to assist batters and could produce a high-scoring encounter.Although the black-soil surface is likely to provide some grip for slower bowlers, the short boundaries and fast outfield are expected to make defending totals difficult.DC vs RR weather forecastWeather conditions in New Delhi are forecast to remain extremely hot and dry for the night match.The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for severe heatwave conditions across the region. While there is a slight possibility of thundery activity or a light dust storm during the afternoon, no rain interruption is expected during the match. Delhi’s batting and bowling concerns continue Delhi’s batting unit has struggled in the Powerplay, with no team losing more wickets in the opening phase this season. Several of their recent wins have relied heavily on recovery efforts from the middle and lower order, including contributions from Axar Patel, David Miller and Ashutosh Sharma. KL Rahul has also experienced a dip in form after a brief run of strong performances. The bowling attack has similarly looked unsettled for much of the campaign. Apart from Lungi Ngidi, most Delhi bowlers have conceded at over 10 runs per over, while Kuldeep Yadav has struggled to maintain consistency.Rajasthan Royals dealing with inconsistency Rajasthan Royals enter the contest in a slightly stronger position on the points table but face concerns of their own. Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has emerged as one of the standout performers of the season with his aggressive batting displays. However, the rest of the batting line-up has lacked consistency. Yashasvi Jaiswal has lost momentum in recent matches, while Dhruv Jurel and captain Riyan Parag have endured fluctuating form. RR’s bowling attack has also declined after a promising start to the season, with Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger struggling to sustain their earlier effectiveness.Rajasthan hold slight edge in qualification race Rajasthan Royals currently occupy fifth position in the standings and remain marginally better placed due to a slight points advantage and an extra game in hand over Delhi Capitals. However, both teams head into Sunday’s match aware that another defeat could significantly dent their chances of reaching the playoffs.