Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their dominance in the Indian Premier League by winning the IPL 2026 title, defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The victory marked RCB’s second consecutive IPL championship, further cementing their place among the league’s elite teams.
After being asked to chase a target of 156, RCB produced a composed batting performance, reaching 161/5 in just 18 overs. The chase was led by veteran batter Virat Kohli, who delivered yet another memorable knock under pressure. Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 runs off 42 deliveries and recorded the fastest half-century of his IPL career, reaching the milestone in just 25 balls. His innings combined aggression with control and ensured that Bengaluru stayed firmly on course throughout the chase.
Earlier in the evening, Gujarat Titans struggled to build momentum against a disciplined RCB bowling attack and finished with 155/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Rasikh Salam emerged as the standout performer with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets. He was well supported by experienced pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who picked up two wickets each and kept the Titans’ batting line-up under constant pressure.
RCB’s triumph was the culmination of another remarkable season in which every department contributed consistently. The team displayed resilience, tactical discipline, and depth throughout the tournament, qualities that ultimately helped them retain the coveted trophy.
For Virat Kohli, the final was another chapter in his long and illustrious association with the franchise. His match-winning innings not only guided RCB to victory but also highlighted his enduring ability to perform on the biggest stage when it matters most.
The title win sparked celebrations among RCB supporters across the country, although reports indicated that Bengaluru would not host a grand victory parade this year. Nevertheless, the achievement remains a landmark moment for the franchise and its passionate fan base.
With two successive IPL titles now in their cabinet, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have firmly established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in the competition. Their successful title defence in 2026 will be remembered as a season where experience, teamwork, and championship mentality came together to produce another historic triumph.