Dharamsala: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into their second consecutive IPL final after registering a massive 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 Qualifier clash in Dharamsala.

RCB captain Rajat Patidar played a sensational unbeaten knock of 93 runs off just 33 balls, smashing nine sixes and five boundaries. Coming in at 93/1 in 8.2 overs, Patidar stitched together crucial partnerships with Krunal Pandya and Jitesh Sharma to power RCB to a commanding total of 254/5 in 20 overs.

Phillips Hails Patidar’s Match-Winning Knock

Speaking after the match, Gujarat Titans all-rounder Glenn Phillips praised Patidar’s fearless batting style and leadership. He said Patidar understands his strengths well and continues to play aggressively regardless of the match situation.

Phillips described Patidar as a “fabulous player” who can dominate any bowling attack when in form. He added that the RCB skipper leads by example and his explosive innings looked “fantastic.”

GT Collapse Under Pressure

Chasing a mammoth target, the Gujarat Titans struggled from the beginning and were bowled out for 162. Rahul Tewatia fought hard with a 68-run knock, while Jos Buttler contributed 29 runs, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to deliver.

Jacob Duffy and Bhuvneshwar Kumar starred with the ball for RCB, dismantling GT’s top order and ensuring a comfortable victory.

RCB Reach Fifth IPL Final

With the win, Royal Challengers Bengaluru qualified for their fifth IPL final, moving behind only Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings in terms of most IPL final appearances.