The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad witnessed a tactical masterclass on Thursday, as the Gujarat Titans (GT) dismantled the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), in the 42nd match of IPL 2026. While the game was decided by the clinical efficiency of the Titans’ bowling unit and a blistering start by their openers, the real fireworks happened post-match on social media. GT captain Shubman Gill, known for his calm demeanor, showed his witty side by delivering a playful jab at the RCB faithful, turning the franchise’s iconic slogan against them.
Shubman Gill takes a playful dig at RCB supporters following Gujarat Titans’ dominant victory in IPL 2026 game
Following the five-wicket victory, Gill took to Instagram to celebrate the win, sharing a series of photos from the night. Among them was a particularly notable shot of him alongside modern-day legend Virat Kohli. However, it was the caption that sent shockwaves through the IPL fanbases. Gill wrote: “Play Hold @jaseholder98. Bold performance by the team tonight,” cleverly swapping RCB’s famous “Play Bold” mantra with a tribute to the match-winner, Jason Holder.
The “Play Hold” pun was an instant hit with Titans fans but acted as a cheeky salt in the wound for the Bengaluru supporters. The banter highlights the growing rivalry between the two modern heavyweights, especially given RCB’s status as the reigning champions. By tagging Holder and emphasizing the word “Bold,” Gill effectively trolled the RCB slogan while simultaneously hailing his team’s dominant display in front of a packed home crowd.
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Jason Holder delivers match-winning performance as GT outclass RCB in IPL 2026 match
On the field, the narrative was dictated by a disciplined GT bowling attack and a ruthless chase. Choosing to bat first, Royal Challengers Bengaluru struggled to find any rhythm against the relentless pace of Arshad Khan (3/23) and the guile of Rashid Khan (2/19). Despite a fighting 55 off 31 balls from Jacob Bethell and a steady 40 from Devdutt Padikkal, the RCB middle order collapsed.
Holder was the undisputed star of the first innings, providing the “Hold” in Gill’s pun. Holder’s figures of 2/29 were supplemented by three crucial catches, effectively removing the dangerous Jitesh Sharma and Romario Shepherd just as they looked to accelerate. RCB was eventually bundled out for a sub-par 155 in 19.2 overs.
The chase was a showcase of intent from the GT openers. Gill himself led from the front, smashing 43 off just 18 balls at a staggering strike rate of 238.88, including four boundaries and three maximums. He was well-supported by Jos Buttler, who hammered 39 off 19. Despite a mid-innings wobble caused by Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s 3/28, the Titans never looked in danger.
Rahul Tewatia played a composed unbeaten knock of 27 off 17, guiding GT to 158/6 in just 15.5 overs. The victory, achieved with 25 balls to spare, not only boosted GT’s net run rate but also served as a statement of intent as the tournament heads toward the playoffs. Holder was deservedly named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution, cementing a night where the Titans truly “Held” their nerve and played “Bold.”
