Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru delivered a sensational performance to defeat Gujarat Titans by 92 runs in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2026 and book their place in the final. The high-voltage clash at Dharamsala turned into a one-sided contest as RCB dominated with both bat and ball.
Batting first after Gujarat Titans opted to bowl, RCB posted a massive total of 254/5 in 20 overs – the highest score ever recorded in an IPL playoff match. Captain Rajat Patidar led the charge with a breathtaking unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls. His explosive innings included nine sixes and came at a strike rate above 280. Virat Kohli contributed 43 runs, while Krunal Pandya added a quickfire 43 to power Bengaluru to a record-breaking total.
Gujarat Titans’ chase never gained momentum as RCB’s bowlers struck early and reduced them to 51/5 inside the powerplay. Rahul Tewatia fought back with a spirited 68 runs, but the Titans were eventually bowled out for 162 in 19.3 overs. Fast bowlers Jacob Duffy and Rasikh Dar played crucial roles in dismantling the batting lineup.
The victory marked RCB’s second consecutive IPL final appearance under captain Rajat Patidar. Cricket experts and former players praised the side’s aggressive batting approach and disciplined bowling performance, calling it one of the most dominant playoff victories in IPL history.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will now get another opportunity to qualify for the final when they face the winner of the Eliminator in Qualifier 2.
