RCB Faces Dramatic Collapse Against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026

RCB's Promising Start Turns Sour

In an IPL 2026 match on Thursday, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) experienced a significant batting collapse after a strong beginning against Gujarat Titans (GT). Despite a solid opening partnership spearheaded by Virat Kohli, RCB could not capitalize on their early momentum and were ultimately bowled out for 155 runs in 19.2 overs, thanks to a disciplined bowling performance from the Titans.

Strong Opening Overs

RCB, batting first, began their innings with vigor. Virat Kohli aggressively attacked GT's Kagiso Rabada, scoring five consecutive boundaries in the second over, propelling the score to 27 without losing a wicket. However, the tide turned quickly when Mohammed Siraj dismissed Jacob Bethell for just 5 runs in the next over. Kohli, who scored 28 off 13 balls, was also removed by Rabada shortly after, leaving RCB at 39/2.

Middle-Order Woes

After the power play, RCB stood at 59/2. However, the situation worsened when Arshad Khan took out skipper Rajat Patidar for 19 runs off 15 balls. The pressure mounted as Jason Holder dismissed Jitesh Sharma for a mere 1 run, followed by Rashid Khan sending Tim David back for just 9 runs. By the end of the 10th over, RCB found themselves in a precarious position at 91/5.

Lower Order's Struggles

The collapse continued as Arshad Khan claimed Krunal Pandya for just 4 runs. By the 13th over, Romario Shepherd and Devdutt Padikkal managed to stabilize the innings, bringing the score to 113/6. However, Rashid Khan struck again in the 14th over, clean bowling Padikkal, who scored a brisk 40 off 24 balls, including five fours and two sixes. Jason Holder then dismissed Shepherd for 17 runs, leaving RCB reeling at 132/8 after 15 overs.

Final Overs and Bowling Highlights

In the closing overs, Venkatesh Iyer contributed 12 runs off 15 balls, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar remained not out on 15, helping RCB reach a total of 155 before being bowled out. For the Titans, Mohammed Siraj (1/38) and Kagiso Rabada (1/44) each took a wicket, while Jason Holder (2/29) and Rashid Khan (2/19) claimed two wickets each. Arshad Khan was the standout bowler with a remarkable three-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 3/22.