IPL
Rajat Patidar blitz powers Royal Challengers Bengaluru into IPL 2026 final
Dharamsala/IBNS: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into the final of the 2026 Indian Premier League after outclassing Gujarat Titans by 92 runs in Qualifier 1 at Dharamsala on Tuesday.
Bengaluru bowled out Gujarat for 162 in 19.3 overs after posting a mammoth 254/5, sealing their place in the final for the second consecutive season.
Skipper Rajat Patidar led from the front with a breathtaking 93 off just 33 balls at a strike rate of over 281.
The innings, packed with five fours and nine sixes, completely dismantled the Gujarat bowling attack and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Contributions from Virat Kohli and all-rounder Krunal Pandya, who both scored 43, further powered Bengaluru’s explosive batting display.
Chasing a daunting target, Gujarat never looked in control despite a quickfire 29 off 11 balls from Jos Buttler and a fighting 68 from Rahul Tewatia.
Pacer Jacob Duffy starred with the ball for Bengaluru, picking up 3/39 in his four overs to spearhead the bowling attack.
Having finished in the top two of the league standings, Gujarat will now face the winner of the Eliminator between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday for a place in the final.
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