Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the 2026 Indian Premier League final against Gujarat Titans by five wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad today [1, 2, 3]. RCB chased a target of 156 runs, scoring 161-5 in 18 overs with 12 balls to spare [1, 2, 3].
Virat Kohli starred with an unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, including nine fours and three sixes, marking his fifth half-century of the IPL season [1, 2, 3]. He sealed the win by hitting the winning runs with a six and was named player of the match [1, 2, 3]. Kohli, 37, who retired from T20 internationals after the 2024 World Cup, now focuses on the IPL and ODI cricket [1, 3]. He said, "Stuff you dream of. Thought of this moment many times, wanting to hit the winning run," highlighting his composure under pressure [3].
RCB captain Rajat Patidar led the team to their second consecutive IPL title, becoming one of the few captains to secure back-to-back championships [2, 3]. RCB topped the league table at the end of the 2026 IPL league stage [1, 2, 3].
The Gujarat Titans were restricted to 155-8 in their 20 overs [1, 2, 3]. Their top scorer was Washington Sundar, who remained unbeaten on 50 [1, 2, 3]. Rasikh Salam Dar took 3 wickets for 27 runs in a disciplined bowling attack that also included Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took two wickets each [1, 2, 3].
The final was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket ground, in front of an official crowd of over 90,000 spectators [2, 3]. Kohli reflected on the team’s strong mindset, stating, "Felt really relaxed coming in. The team we have gives confidence to see any kind of situation through. Knew exactly what to do in the chase," and added, "We knew what kind of ability we have in the group. And we just said one thing: 'If we stick to our cricket, if we execute our plans, we are the best team in the competition'" [2].
RCB’s win today secures back-to-back IPL titles for the club under Patidar’s captaincy [2, 3]. The 2026 season’s final ends with RCB crowned champions after finishing top of the league stage and then triumphing in the knockout matches [1, 2, 3].
