RcbRoyal Challengers Bengaluru are IPL champions once again.
RCB successfully defended their title with a five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 Final, capping off another impressive season with a performance worthy of champions. Chasing 156 for victory, Bengaluru reached 161/5 in 18 overs, with Virat Kohli leading the way with an unbeaten 75.
For a franchise that spent years chasing its first IPL trophy, winning back-to-back titles is a remarkable achievement. More importantly, it highlights how RCB have evolved from a team known for individual brilliance into one built on consistency, balance, and winning under pressure.
After being put in to bat, Gujarat Titans never really found the momentum needed in a high-stakes final. RCB’s bowling attack struck at regular intervals, preventing GT from building substantial partnerships.
Washington Sundar was the standout performer for Gujarat, finishing unbeaten on 50 from 37 deliveries. Nitish Sindhu contributed 20 runs, while Jos Buttler managed 19. However, the Titans struggled to accelerate during the middle overs and could only post 155/8 from their 20 overs.
RCB’s bowlers deserve significant credit for keeping one of the tournament’s strongest batting lineups under control. Rasikh Salam emerged as one of the stars of the final with figures of 3/27. Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar claimed two wickets each, while Krunal Pandya delivered another economical spell in the middle overs.
At the innings break, Gujarat had something to defend, but the total always looked slightly below par considering the quality of RCB’s batting lineup.
As expected, all eyes were on Virat Kohli during the chase.
The former captain has been the face of the franchise for well over a decade, and he once again delivered on the biggest stage. Kohli played a near-perfect innings, remaining unbeaten on 75 from just 42 balls. His knock included nine boundaries and three sixes, but what stood out most was the control with which he managed the chase.
Whenever Gujarat attempted to create pressure, Kohli responded calmly. He rotated the strike effectively, punished loose deliveries, and ensured the required run rate never became a concern.
He was well supported by Venkatesh Iyer, who provided valuable momentum with a quick-fire 32 off 16 balls. Tim David added 24 from 17 deliveries, while Jitesh Sharma remained unbeaten as RCB crossed the finish line with two overs to spare.
Gujarat Titans fought hard with the ball. Rashid Khan picked up two wickets, while Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Arshad Khan claimed one wicket each. However, the target simply wasn’t enough against an RCB batting unit that approached the chase with confidence and clarity.
The victory marks another major chapter in RCB’s history. Not only have they retained their IPL crown, but they have also established themselves as one of the strongest teams in the league. Winning consecutive championships in a tournament as competitive as the IPL is never easy, making this achievement even more significant.
Match Summary
Gujarat Titans – 155/8 (20 Overs)
- Washington Sundar 50* (37)
- Nitish Sindhu 20 (18)
- Jos Buttler 19 (23)
RCB Bowling
- Rasikh Salam 3/27
- Josh Hazlewood 2/37
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2/29
- Krunal Pandya 1/23
Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 161/5 (18 Overs)
- Virat Kohli 75* (42)
- Venkatesh Iyer 32 (16)
- Tim David 24 (17)
GT Bowling
- Rashid Khan 2 wickets
- Mohammed Siraj 1 wicket
- Kagiso Rabada 1 wicket
- Arshad Khan 1 wicket
For RCB fans, this victory is more than another trophy. It is confirmation that the team has become a true powerhouse of the IPL. With Virat Kohli once again delivering when it mattered most and the squad performing as a complete unit, Bengaluru celebrated another unforgettable title-winning night.
RCB IPL 2026 Champions—and deservedly so.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 Result: Full Match Highlights, Scorecard and Final Qualification Update
Also Read: IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 Result: Full Match Highlights, Scorecard and Final Qualification Update