Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second consecutive IPL title on 1 June 2026, defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Virat Kohli's unbeaten 75 off 42 balls — his fastest IPL fifty — anchored the chase of 156 runs as RCB celebrated a historic back-to-back triumph.

Kohli and Iyer Power the Chase

Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer propelled RCB to the fastest team fifty in an IPL final, setting the tone for a confident pursuit. Kohli remained unbeaten at the crease until the winning runs were struck, delivering yet another defining performance on cricket's biggest domestic stage. The five-wicket victory was never seriously in doubt once the pair found their rhythm.

Bowlers Restrict Gujarat Titans to 155/8

Earlier, Gujarat Titans were restricted to 155/8 despite a fighting half-century from Washington Sundar. Rasikh Salam Dar was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets, supported by disciplined spells from Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. RCB captain Rajat Patidar credited the bowling unit's consistency across the entire season. 'It was clear planning. When we win the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP Suyash, and Shepherd bowled was impressive throughout the tournament,' Patidar said.

Patidar on the Historic Double

Patidar, who led RCB to both titles, was visibly emotional after the win. 'It feels superb. When we came here, there were many memories from last year. I don't have words to express how I feel, but it's very good,' he said. The captain also reflected on his unlikely journey to the role: 'I never dreamed of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was meant to be. I am grateful for that.'

Patidar credited mentor Dinesh Karthik for shaping his pre-tournament preparation. 'The pre-tournament prep was very good for me. I focused on discovering which shots work for me. I received a lot of useful input from DK,' he said. He also acknowledged the franchise's travelling fanbase, noting that 'everywhere felt like a home ground for us with the fans supporting us.'

Historic Achievement and What It Means

With this victory, RCB join Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings as the only franchises to successfully defend the IPL title — a feat that underlines the consistency of Patidar's side over two seasons. RCB had claimed their maiden IPL crown in 2025, ending an 18-year wait, and have now backed it up emphatically. Patidar signed off with a message to supporters: 'This one is for you again, RCB fans. Ee Sala Cup Namdu.'