Royal Challengers Bengaluru delivered a statement performance in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League, thrashing Gujarat Titans by 92 runs to secure a second consecutive IPL final appearance.
The defending champions produced a complete all-round display in Dharamshala, powered by a sensational unbeaten knock from skipper Rajat Patidar and a ruthless pace attack that dismantled Gujarat’s batting lineup under pressure.
Patidar powers RCB to massive total
After being put in to bat, RCB posted a massive 254/5, one of their most dominant batting performances of the season. Rajat Patidar led the charge with a breathtaking unbeaten 93 off just 33 deliveries, smashing nine sixes and five boundaries in a brutal assault during the death overs.
The RCB skipper capitalized after surviving two dropped chances and completely shifted momentum in Bengaluru’s favour as the team hammered 86 runs in the final five overs. RCB scored 114 runs in the last six overs, leaving Gujarat Titans with an almost impossible chase.
The innings once again highlighted RCB’s aggressive batting depth and their ability to accelerate under pressure during crucial knockout fixtures.
Bowlers crush Gujarat Titans
Chasing 255, Gujarat Titans never recovered after a disastrous start inside the powerplay. The pressure of the massive target quickly showed as RCB’s pace unit tore through the top order.
Sai Sudharsan fell in bizarre fashion when his bat slipped from his hands while attempting a shot off Jacob Duffy and crashed into the stumps.
Moments later, Gujarat captain Shubman Gill was bowled for just two by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who continued his outstanding season with the new ball.
RCB’s relentless bowling attack kept Gujarat under constant pressure as Josh Hazlewood dismissed Jos Buttler, while Rasikh Salam struck twice in the powerplay to leave GT struggling at 51/5.
Despite a fighting 68 from Rahul Tewatia, Gujarat Titans were eventually bowled out for 162.
Vijay Mallya reacts to RCB’s dominant win
Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya congratulated the franchise after the emphatic victory.
Sharing his reaction on X, Mallya wrote, “Many many congratulations to RCB namma dodda Simhagulu for an emphatic victory in Dharamshala tonight. You roared loud like the Lions of Bengaluru and roared into the IPL final as defending champions.”
Fifth IPL final for RCB
The win sends Royal Challengers Bengaluru into their fifth IPL final after previous appearances in 2009, 2011, 2016, and 2025. More importantly, it keeps alive their dream of defending the IPL crown after winning the title last season.
With explosive batting form, experienced pace bowling, and strong momentum heading into the summit clash, RCB now look serious contenders to retain the IPL trophy and continue their dominant run in the 2026 season.
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