Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated the Gujarat Titans on Sunday, May 31, 2026, to secure the IPL 2026 championship [1], [2].
The victory marks the first time the franchise has successfully defended its title, establishing a period of dominance in the league [5].
Playing in Ahmedabad, India [6], RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first [3]. The bowling unit restricted the Gujarat Titans to 155/8 in 20 overs [3]. This defensive effort set a target of 156 runs for the championship-winning chase [2].
Virat Kohli anchored the second innings with an unbeaten performance of 75 runs off 42 balls [1]. His innings provided the stability needed to navigate the chase, culminating in a winning six that sealed the match [1], [2]. RCB ultimately won the final by five wickets [4].
The result completes a rare back-to-back championship run for the team [5]. The match served as a culmination of the 2026 season, with Kohli's performance acting as the decisive factor in the final over.
“Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated the Gujarat Titans on Sunday, May 31, 2026, to secure the IPL 2026 championship”
Winning two consecutive titles elevates Royal Challengers Bengaluru from a perennial contender to a dynasty within the IPL. The victory underscores the enduring impact of Virat Kohli in high-pressure finals and suggests a shift in the league's power dynamics toward the Bengaluru franchise.
