Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their dream run in the IPL 2026 by storming into the final with a massive 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 at Dharamsala on Tuesday. The defending champions produced a complete performance with both bat and ball to book their place in another IPL final.
RCB posted a huge total of 254/5 after being asked to bat first. Captain Rajat Patidar led the attack with a stunning unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls. Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya also made valuable contributions with the bat, helping Bengaluru register the highest total ever in the IPL playoff history. In reply, Gujarat Titans were bowled out for 162 as RCB’s bowling attack dominated from the beginning. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jacob Duffy struck early in the Powerplay to put Gujarat under pressure.
After the match, RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat praised the team’s all-round effort and said the side’s biggest strength this season has been contributions from multiple players. According to him, Bengaluru have not relied on just one or two individuals, with both batters and bowlers stepping up regularly throughout the tournament.
Mo Bobat explained that the main focus of the team has been on executing plans properly and constantly putting pressure on opponents rather than worrying too much about results. He said every player who got an opportunity in the match made an impact, which has been a key reason behind the team’s success this year.
The RCB official reserved special praise for skipper Rajat Patidar whose aggressive innings completely changed the momentum of the game after Bengaluru reached 93/1 in the ninth over. Rajat Patidar built important partnerships with Krunal Pandya and Jitesh Sharma before attacking Gujarat’s bowlers in the death overs.
Mo Bobat also highlighted Rajat Patidar’s calm personality and improving leadership skills. He mentioned that the captain has become more confident and composed with every game, especially in pressure situations.
RCB are now one step away from defending their IPL title successfully. If they win the final, they will become only the third franchise after Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings to retain the IPL trophy.
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