“It feels superb”: Rajat Patidar Rajat ecstatic as RCB clinch back-to-back IPL t
A Historic Night in Ahmedabad: RCB Retains the Throne
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have etched their names in gold yet again, clinching back-to-back Indian Premier League (IPL) titles. Under the tactical leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB achieved what only two other franchises have managed in the history of the league—defending their crown successfully. By mirroring the legendary campaigns of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Mumbai Indians (MI), Bengaluru has cemented its status as a modern-day powerhouse. The final of the IPL 2026 season saw them defeat the Gujarat Titans (GT) on their home turf at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the exact venue where RCB secured their maiden title just a year prior.
Tactical Masterclass: Bowlers Set the Tone
Winning the toss on what looked like a tricky surface, RCB captain Rajat Patidar chose to bowl first. The decision was calculated, aiming to put immediate pressure on Gujarat’s formidable top order. GT’s primary strength lay in their explosive opening pair of Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill, along with the dangerous Jos Buttler. RCB’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection, denying the GT batters any room to break free.
The defending champions dismantled the host’s batting lineup with disciplined line and length. Rasikh Salam led the destruction, returning exceptional figures of 3 for 27 in his 4 overs, maintaining a brilliant economy rate of 6.75. He was brilliantly supported by veteran swing bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood, both of whom picked up a brace of wickets each. Despite a resilient, unbeaten half-century from Washington Sundar, who scored 50* off 37 deliveries, Gujarat Titans were restricted to a below-par score of 155/8 in their allotted 20 overs. The disciplined efforts of the entire bowling unit, including Krunal Pandya, Suyash Prabhudessai, and Romario Shepherd, ensured that RCB kept a firm grip on the contest from the very first over.
The Chase: Kohli’s Masterclass Steers RCB Home
Chasing 156 for victory, RCB got off to a flying start. Venkatesh Iyer and Virat Kohli safely negotiated a watchful first over before launching an onslaught on the GT bowlers. However, the Gujarat Titans refused to surrender without a fight on their home ground. After breaking the opening partnership by dismissing Venkatesh Iyer, the GT bowlers triggered a mini-collapse. Devdutt Padikkal, skipper Rajat Patidar, and Krunal Pandya departed in quick succession, leaving RCB in a spot of bother.
Enter the chase-master, Virat Kohli. Showing his trademark composure, Kohli anchored the innings and ensured there were no further slip-ups. He found an able partner in Tim David, who played a crucial supporting role to ease the pressure. Kohli remained unbeaten on a magnificent 75 off just 42 deliveries, a sensational knock studded with nine boundaries and three towering sixes. His clinical batting ensured RCB crossed the finish line with 5 wickets in hand and 12 balls to spare, sparking wild celebrations in the Bengaluru dugout.
The Captain Reflects on Back-to-Back Glory
The triumph was a deeply emotional moment for the squad, especially for their captain. In the post-match presentation, RCB captain Rajat Patidar shared his overwhelming happiness. “It feels superb. When we came here there was a lot of memories of last year. I don’t have words to express but feeling very good. It was clear planning. When we win the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP, Suyash, and Shepherd, they bowled really well throughout the tournament,” Patidar remarked.
Patidar also opened up about his unexpected journey to leadership. “I never dreamt of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was written. Grateful for that. We were slightly more confident than last year. Everywhere it felt like a home ground for us with the fans coming in. The pre-tournament prep was very good for me. I tried to analyze which shots are good for me. I got so many inputs from DK, which were helpful for me. He is always there for the team,” he added, expressing gratitude to veteran teammate Dinesh Karthik for his invaluable mentorship.
A Legacy Solidified
With this victory, RCB has established a true championship dynasty. The blend of experienced veterans like Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, combined with the youthful energy of Rasikh Salam, has made them a force to be reckoned with. Defending an IPL title requires immense mental fortitude, and under Rajat Patidar’s calm guidance, RCB proved that their maiden title was no fluke. As the celebrations continue, RCB fans can look forward to a dominant era ahead, knowing their team has conquered the IPL twice in a row.
