RCB Storm into IPL 2026 Final with 92 Run Thrashing of Gujarat Titans

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) powered their way directly into the IPL 2026 final with a commanding 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 at Dharamshala on Tuesday. Captain Rajat Patidar’s explosive unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls turned the contest into a one-sided affair, sending RCB into their first final in years.

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Gujarat Titans watched RCB post a massive 254 for 5 in 20 overs. While Virat Kohli (43) and Devdutt Padikkal (30) provided solid starts, it was Patidar who stole the show, smashing 5 fours and 9 sixes in a whirlwind knock. Krunal Pandya’s quick 43 further boosted the total.

Chasing a daunting 255, Gujarat Titans faltered early. Sai Sudharsan (14), skipper Shubman Gill (2), and Jos Buttler (29) departed quickly, leaving the side reeling at 51 for 5. Rahul Tewatia fought bravely with a valiant 68 off 43 balls (8 fours, 4 sixes), but lack of support from the other end saw GT bundled out for 162 in 19.3 overs.

Jacob Duffy led RCB’s bowling attack with 3 wickets, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, and Rasikh Salam Dar picked up 2 wickets each.

Despite the loss, Gujarat Titans remain alive in the tournament and will face the winner of the Eliminator between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 on May 29. The winner of that match will join RCB in the grand finale.