Kohli’s unbeaten 75 guides Bengaluru to a five-wicket victory at Narendra Modi Stadium
Ahmedabad | June 1, 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) successfully defended their Indian Premier League (IPL) crown, securing a second consecutive title with a commanding five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Led by an unbeaten masterclass from Virat Kohli, RCB chased down Gujarat’s target of 156 with two overs to spare, reaching 156/5 in 18 overs. Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 off 42 deliveries, striking three sixes and nine boundaries in a match-winning knock that once again highlighted his enduring class on cricket’s biggest stage.
Kohli Delivers on the Big Occasion
At 37, Kohli proved why he remains one of the game’s greatest competitors. The veteran batter anchored the chase with composure and aggression, bringing up his half-century in just 25 balls — reportedly his fastest IPL fifty.
The former RCB captain sealed the victory in style, smashing the final two deliveries of Arshad Khan’s 18th over for a six and a four, sparking celebrations among Bengaluru supporters.
Kohli also survived a crucial moment in the chase when an on-field decision ruling him out was overturned following a successful review, allowing him to continue his match-winning innings.
Strong Support from Venkatesh Iyer and Tim David
RCB received valuable contributions from Venkatesh Iyer and Tim David. Iyer, introduced as an Impact Player, scored a brisk 32 off 16 balls and shared a 62-run opening partnership with Kohli that laid the foundation for the chase.
Tim David added 24 from 17 deliveries, keeping the scoreboard moving during the middle overs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, including skipper Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya, RCB never lost control of the chase thanks to Kohli’s steady presence at the crease.
Jitesh Sharma also chipped in with an important unbeaten 11 as Bengaluru crossed the finish line comfortably.
Gujarat Titans Restricted to 155
Earlier, Gujarat Titans struggled to build momentum after being asked to bat first. The runners-up finished on 155/8 in their 20 overs, with Washington Sundar emerging as their top scorer with an unbeaten 50 from 37 balls.
Nishant Sindhu contributed 20 off 18 deliveries, while Jos Buttler managed 19 from 23 balls. However, Gujarat’s batting lineup failed to capitalize after a sluggish powerplay, losing key wickets at regular intervals.
Captain Shubman Gill departed for 10 after a sharp catch by Rajat Patidar, while Sai Sudharsan was dismissed for 12. The middle order failed to accelerate, leaving Washington Sundar with too much work in the final overs.
RCB Bowlers Set Up the Victory
RCB’s bowling attack played a crucial role in restricting Gujarat to a below-par total. Rasikh Salam Dar was the standout performer, claiming three wickets, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood picked up two wickets each.
The disciplined bowling effort ensured Gujarat never gained control of the innings, setting the stage for Kohli and the batting unit to complete the job.
Back-to-Back Glory for Bengaluru
The victory marks another historic milestone for RCB as the franchise lifts its second consecutive IPL trophy. For Kohli, who has been synonymous with Bengaluru throughout his IPL career, the triumph adds yet another memorable chapter to his legacy.
In a final where bowlers from both sides fought hard, it was Kohli’s brilliance under pressure that ultimately made the difference, guiding Bengaluru to yet another championship celebration.
