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Royal Challengers Bengaluru went one step closer to the title after beating Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 in Dharamshala, reaching the IPL 2026 final. The reigning champions, led by Rajat Patidar, were dominant in the playoff game. With Virat Kohli leading the way, the RCB batting unit put on a masterclass of performance when it mattered the most.

Patidar, the RCB captain, shone the brightest, contributing with an unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls as Bengaluru made 254.

In response, GT were sent packing for 162. The last year’s champions will now wait for their opponents to be confirmed in the second qualifier, scheduled for May 29.

How Many Times Have RCB Featured In IPL Final?

The Bengaluru-based franchise has been the Indian Premier League finalist three times since the inaugural 2008 edition. They first reached the summit clash in 2009 but eventually lost to the now-defunct Deccan Chargers.

RCB played the 2011 IPL final, where an MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings had the last laugh. In 2016, Bengaluru faced Sunrisers Hyderabad in the decider, but again, they fell short in a high-scoring affair. RCB finally ended their long-standing dream in 2025, beating Punjab Kings to secure their maiden IPL trophy.

RCB IPL Final Records

Can RCB Defend The IPL Title In 2026?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru has a formidable team, featuring both legendary names and promising youngsters.

They have been dominant throughout the season. After finishing at the top of the table, RCB have comfortably gone past GT in the first qualifier to reach the final once again. Now, they need to overcome one more hurdle to become the third team to retain the IPL title after MI and CSK.