Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a dominant performance to defeat Gujarat Titans by 85 runs in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, booking their place in the final. The victory at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru was RCB's second-biggest win in playoffs history, showcasing their formidable form this season.
RCB's Batting Masterclass
Opting to bat first, RCB posted a mammoth total of 214/3 in their 20 overs. Captain Faf du Plessis led from the front with a scintillating 92 off 58 balls, including 10 fours and 4 sixes. Virat Kohli contributed a solid 67 off 45 balls, sharing a 145-run partnership for the second wicket. Glenn Maxwell's quickfire 38 off 18 balls towards the end propelled the total past 210.
Gujarat Titans' Bowling Struggles
Gujarat Titans' bowlers had a tough outing. Mohammed Shami was the pick of the bowlers with 2/36, but the rest of the attack leaked runs. Rashid Khan went for 45 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket, while Mohit Sharma conceded 52 runs. The Titans' fielding also let them down, with two crucial catches dropped.
Titans' Chase Falls Apart
Chasing 215, Gujarat Titans never got going. They lost early wickets and were reduced to 45/3 in the powerplay. Shubman Gill (22) and David Miller (34) tried to rebuild, but the required run rate kept climbing. Once Miller departed, the lower order collapsed. Josh Hazlewood was the star with the ball for RCB, taking 4/22, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with 3/28. Gujarat Titans were bowled out for 129 in 18.3 overs.
RCB's Record in Playoffs
This win is RCB's second-biggest in playoffs history, following their 90-run win against Rajasthan Royals in the 2024 eliminator. The victory also extended their winning streak to seven matches. RCB will now await the winner of the Qualifier 2 in the final, scheduled for May 29.
Key Performances
- Faf du Plessis: 92 off 58 balls (Player of the Match)
- Virat Kohli: 67 off 45 balls
- Josh Hazlewood: 4/22
- Wanindu Hasaranga: 3/28
Gujarat Titans will now face the winner of the Eliminator between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 for a chance to reach the final.
