Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) produced a stunning all-round display to book their spot in the IPL 2026 final, dismantling Gujarat Titans by a massive 92 runs in Qualifier 1 at the HPCA Stadium here on Tuesday.
Batting first after GT won the toss and elected to field, RCB posted a mammoth 254 for 5 — the highest team total ever recorded in IPL playoff history. The previous record of 233/3 was set by Gujarat Titans against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 Qualifier 2.
Captain Rajat Patidar was the architect of the carnage, smashing an unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls, laced with nine towering sixes at a strike rate of nearly 282. His blistering knock earned him the Player of the Match award. Virat Kohli provided a solid platform with a quickfire 43 off 25 balls, while contributions from the middle order helped RCB maintain a scorching run rate of 12.70.
In reply, GT’s chase never gained momentum. The Titans were bundled out for 162 in 19.3 overs, with RCB’s bowling unit executing disciplined spells. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jacob Duffy were among the key performers with the ball as GT’s top-order struggled against the pace and variation.
The victory sends RCB into the final on May 31 in Ahmedabad, where they will aim for back-to-back titles. This dominant performance underscores their status as the league-stage toppers and one of the strongest teams in the competition.
Key Highlights:
• Highest IPL Playoff Score: RCB 254/5
• Margin of Victory: 92 runs
• Patidar’s Heroics: 93* (33) – Quickest 90+ in IPL playoffs context
• Kohli Milestone: Crossed significant seasonal runs, continuing his consistent form
RCB fans and former legends, including AB de Villiers, hailed the comprehensive performance as a statement of intent heading into the summit clash. GT, despite a strong season, will now have to regroup if they get another chance through the Eliminator route.
The stage is set for an exciting finale as RCB chase IPL glory once again.
