IPL 2026: Cricket world reacts to RCB’s back-to-back titles | CricTracker

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) successfully retained their Indian Premier League crown after defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Sunday, May 31.

On a night that demanded composure and big-match temperament, Virat Kohli once again rose to the occasion, producing an unbeaten masterclass to steer RCB to their second IPL title in as many seasons. Chasing a modest target of 156, the Bengaluru-based franchise reached 161/5 in just 18 overs, sealing a memorable victory with 12 balls to spare.

After being asked to bat first, Gujarat Titans endured a difficult start against a disciplined RCB bowling attack. Sai Sudharsan and skipper Shubman Gill fell inside the powerplay, leaving GT searching for stability in the summit clash.

Nishant Sindhu showed positive intent with a brisk 20 off 18 deliveries, but RCB continued to chip away with regular wickets. Jos Buttler struggled to accelerate and was eventually stumped off Krunal Pandya after scoring 19 from 23 balls.

With Gujarat reeling, Washington Sundar stood tall amid the collapse. The left-hander anchored the innings beautifully and remained unbeaten on 50 off 37 deliveries, striking five boundaries. Useful cameos from Arshad Khan (15 off 6), Rahul Tewatia (7 off 5), Jason Holder (7 off 5), and Rashid Khan (7 off 3) helped GT reach a competitive 155/8 in their 20 overs.

RCB’s bowlers delivered collectively in the high-pressure encounter. Rasikh Salam Dar emerged as the standout performer with figures of 3/27, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood claimed two wickets apiece. Krunal Pandya also played his part with an economical spell, conceding just 23 runs and dismissing Buttler.

Chasing 156 for victory, RCB got off to a flying start thanks to Venkatesh Iyer. The aggressive left-hander took the attack to the Gujarat bowlers, smashing 32 off just 16 balls and ensuring the defending champions dominated the powerplay.

Although Mohammed Siraj removed Iyer and Kagiso Rabada dismissed Devdutt Padikkal cheaply, Virat Kohli remained unfazed. The veteran batter combined caution with aggression perfectly, keeping the scoreboard moving while neutralising Gujarat’s bowling threats.

GT found some hope when Rashid Khan struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya. However, Kohli continued to dictate terms and found a reliable partner in Tim David. The Australian all-rounder chipped in with a valuable 24 off 17 deliveries, effectively taking the game away from the Titans.

Kohli brought up a magnificent unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, laced with nine fours and three sixes, showcasing exactly why he remains one of the greatest performers in IPL history. Jitesh Sharma stayed unbeaten alongside him as RCB comfortably crossed the finish line in the 18th over.

Take a look at how social media reacted to RCB winning IPL for the second-time:

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