Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched the IPL 2026 title with a comfortable five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on May 31.
After being put in to bat, GT struggled for momentum and finished on 155/8, with Washington Sundar top-scoring with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls. Rasikh Salam Dar starred with the ball for RCB, claiming 3/27, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood picked up two wickets apiece.
In response, Virat Kohli produced a match-winning unbeaten 75 off 42 deliveries, striking nine fours and three sixes to guide RCB home with ease. Rashid Khan returned figures of 2/25 for GT, but Kohli’s brilliance ensured RCB lifted the trophy in style.
Talking Points:
GT openers fail to fire
Asked to bat first, Gujarat Titans endured a difficult start as their top order struggled to find any rhythm against RCB’s disciplined pace attack. Josh Hazlewood struck an early blow by dismissing skipper Shubman Gill, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Sai Sudharsan to leave the Titans on the back foot. The early wickets ensured RCB maintained control throughout the powerplay.
RCB cruise through the chase
Chasing a modest target of 156, RCB completed the task comfortably in 18 overs. Virat Kohli led the charge with a superb unbeaten 75, while the rest of the batting unit played valuable supporting roles. The chase never looked in danger, with Kohli anchoring the innings and ensuring there were no hiccups along the way.
RCB successfully defend their crown
With the victory, RCB became only the third franchise in IPL history to successfully defend their title, joining the elite company of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Carrying the confidence and momentum from their triumph in the previous season, RCB once again showcased their quality and consistency to retain the trophy in emphatic fashion.
Who said what?
Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans (Losing Captain)
Definitely. If we would have got close to 180-190, it would have been a good match. First three four overs there is some movement for the fast bowlers and we lost momentum after losing a couple of early wickets. We gave away 15-20 runs in the powerplay. I think we were one of the best bowling sides in the tournament. After losing the first couple of games we came back. Very happy. We couldn’t get over the line but there would have always been areas to improve even if we won the trophy.
Rajat Patidar, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Winning Captain)
It feels superb. When we came here there was a lot of memories of last year. I don’t have words to express but feeling very good. It was clear planning. When we win the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP Suyash and Shepherd, they bowled really well throughout the tournament. I never dreamt of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was written. Grateful for that. We were slightly more confident than last year. Everywhere it felt like a home ground for us with the fans coming in. The pre tournament prep was very good for me. I tried to analyze which shots are good for me. I got so many inputs from DK, which were helpful for me. He is always there for the team. This one is for you again, RCB fans. Ee Sala nu Cup Namdu.
Virat Kohli, Player of the Match
It’s stuff that you dream of. Thought of this moment many times, to win the IPL and stand here. The kind of team you gives you the confidence to see off any kind of situation. Such is the demand of the sport today. You have these young players pushing you hard and asking you to get better. You need to get those 20-30 runs extra. I had to change my mindset, not so much by game, to get those runs. Tha target was to finish top of the table. A lot of people asked who we would prefer to play in the play. But we didn’t care of the jersey in front of us. We are a professional group. They probably looked to get me out early but I had the confidence that even if I get out there is enough depth in the side to pull it off. There was total clarity and both of us wanted to strike. We had small targets in mind. Credit to Venkatesh as well. Stepped in and did a beautiful job. I always say that we don’t have just 7 home games we have 14. GT are the home team here but probably 90% are RCB fans.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Player of the Series
It feels good but I feel a bit under pressure having to give the interview. Sir, I am not drinking milk nowadays. How to play each game, you can’t play every game the same way. If I have to stay injury free I have to work on my fitness. Everyone is very supportive. All senior players, support staff, everyone backs me and it’s a good atmosphere.
