RCB Clinches Back-to-Back IPL Titles with Victory Over Gujarat Titans

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has made history by winning the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans, securing their second consecutive title. Led by Virat Kohli, who delivered a match-winning performance despite an injury, RCB chased down the target with ease. This victory not only marks RCB's successful title defense but also makes them the first franchise to hold both the men's IPL and Women's Premier League trophies in the same year. Discover the highlights of this thrilling match and Kohli's remarkable innings.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 00:00 IST

RCB Triumphs in IPL 2026 Final

In a remarkable display of skill, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their second consecutive title by defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 31. Despite nursing an injury, Virat Kohli delivered another stellar performance, leading his team to victory. Under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, RCB has now joined the elite group of teams that have successfully defended their title, following in the footsteps of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.

Winning the toss, Patidar opted to bowl first. The RCB bowlers showcased their prowess, limiting the Gujarat Titans to a mere 155 runs for 8 wickets. The opening pair of Shubman Gill (10) and Sai Sudharsan (8) fell victim to the experienced bowling duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood. Washington Sundar was the standout performer for the Titans, scoring 50 runs off 37 balls, but no other batsman managed to exceed 20 runs. Rasikh Salman Dar was the star of the RCB bowling attack, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs, while Bhuvneshwar and Hazlewood each took 2 wickets. Krunal Pandya also contributed with an economical spell, taking 1 wicket for 23 runs, including the crucial dismissal of Jos Buttler.

Kohli's Stellar Performance in the Chase

Virat Kohli Shines In Run Chase

RCB's batting effort was highlighted by Kohli's exceptional performance, as the team successfully chased down the target with 12 balls remaining. Venkatesh Iyer made a significant contribution with a quick 32 runs off 16 balls, helping RCB surpass the 50-run mark in just 3.3 overs. Kohli reached his half-century in a mere 26 balls, marking the fastest fifty of his IPL career at the age of 37. Tim David added a valuable 24 runs off 17 balls, while Kohli remained not out at 75 runs from 42 balls, sealing the victory with a six on the final ball of the 18th over.

RCB's Historic Achievement

RCB's Historic Title

This victory signifies RCB's place in history as the third team to defend their title, joining the ranks of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Furthermore, RCB has made history by becoming the first franchise to win both the men's IPL and the Women's Premier League (WPL) trophies in the same year. Following Smriti Mandhana's team's triumph earlier this year, RCB has become the first club to hold both prestigious trophies simultaneously.