RCB have biggest chance to defend IPL title, says Raina backing Bengaluru
Synopsis
Suresh Raina's endorsement of RCB as IPL 2026 title favourites rests on their clarity of roles and tactical maturity — not just firepower. But Rajasthan Royals' fearless youth and Gujarat Titans' late-tournament momentum suggest the race remains open. RCB's second-place standing with 12 points from 9 matches puts them in the box seat, but execution under pressure will decide.
Key Takeaways
Suresh Raina backs RCB as strong favourites to defend their IPL 2026 title.
RCB currently stand second with 12 points from nine matches .
Captain Rajat Patidar's leadership and the team's tactical clarity across departments cited as key strengths.
Rajasthan Royals flagged as emerging challengers with a fearless young setup led by Riyan Parag .
Gujarat Titans gaining momentum with Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill in form.
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as strong favourites to defend their IPL 2026 title, praising their balanced approach and tactical clarity across batting and bowling units. Speaking on the tournament's progress, Raina highlighted Captain Rajat Patidar's leadership and the team's attacking intent as key strengths.
What makes RCB frontrunners
"The way they are playing, and how their bowling unit is operating, with Captain Rajat Patidar leading from the front, has been impressive," Raina said. He emphasised that RCB's edge extends beyond raw scoring power. "It is not just about scoring big 240-250 totals; everyone in the batting unit understands their roles," he noted, underscoring the team's strategic maturity.
Rajasthan Royals emerging challengers
While backing RCB, Raina also acknowledged the resurgence of Rajasthan Royals, who have built a young and fearless unit 18 years after their maiden title. "You start with their fearless opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Jofra Archer with the new ball, Ravi Bishnoi in the middle, and Riyan Parag leading the side. It is a young team, but they are playing a very watchable brand of cricket," Raina observed, highlighting the franchise's blueprint for sustained success.
Gujarat Titans gaining momentum
Raina also flagged Gujarat Titans as a side peaking at the right juncture. "Rashid Khan has had a couple of good games, and Shubman Gill is playing with a higher strike rate," he said, pointing to individual form translating into collective momentum.
RCB's current standing
The defending champions are currently placed second with 12 points from nine matches. They face Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Thursday, a fixture that could consolidate their position in the race.
Despite the quality of challengers, Raina maintained his conviction: "But I feel RCB has the biggest chance."
Point of View
Yet IPL history is littered with mid-tournament favourites who faltered under knockout pressure. Execution, not pedigree, will decide.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Suresh Raina back RCB to defend their IPL 2026 title?
Raina cites RCB's balanced approach, tactical clarity in roles, and Captain Rajat Patidar's leadership as key strengths. He emphasises that the team's attacking batting unit understands individual roles beyond just scoring big totals, giving them an edge over competitors.
Which teams does Raina see as challengers to RCB?
Raina has flagged Rajasthan Royals as emerging challengers with a fearless young setup 18 years after their first title, and Gujarat Titans as a side gaining momentum with players like Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill in form.
What is RCB's current standing in IPL 2026?
RCB are placed second in the tournament standings with 12 points from nine matches, positioning them as frontrunners in the title race.
Who is the captain of RCB in IPL 2026?
Rajat Patidar is the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026, and Suresh Raina has praised his leadership from the front.
What is RCB's next fixture?
RCB will face Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Thursday.
