Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a sensational all-round performance to crush Gujarat Titans (GT) by 92 runs in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2026 and seal their place in the final for the second season in a row. Playing at the scenic HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, RCB outclassed GT in every department, proving once again why they finished as the table-toppers this season.
The emphatic victory sparked celebrations among RCB fans across the globe, and former franchise owner Vijay Mallya was among the first to share his excitement after the blockbuster win.
Vijay Mallya reacts after RCB’s clinical performance
Although Mallya is no longer associated with the franchise after its massive ownership transition earlier this year, his emotional bond with RCB continues to remain strong. The businessman, who played a major role in building the team during the early years of the IPL, took to social media to congratulate the side for their dominant playoff display.
Praising the fearless approach shown by the Bengaluru-based franchise, Mallya posted an emotional message celebrating the team’s fighting spirit and aggressive brand of cricket.
“Many Many congratulations to RCB namma dodda Simhagulu for an emphatic victory in Dharamshala tonight. You roared loud like the Lions of Bengaluru and roared into the IPL final as defending champions.” he wrote on X.
Notably, Mallya has often spoken about his deep attachment to the franchise, especially because he was instrumental in bringing a young Virat Kohli into the RCB setup back in 2008. Even after stepping away from the team, he has continued to publicly support Bengaluru during important moments.
Clinical RCB thrash GT too secure final berth
The Qualifier 1 clash turned into a nightmare for Gujarat Titans after RCB’s batting lineup unleashed complete destruction. After being asked to bat first, Bengaluru posted a mammoth total of 254/5 in their 20 overs. RCB lost Venkatesh Iyer early, but Kohli ensured the innings maintained momentum with a fiery 43 off 25 balls. However, the innings truly belonged to skipper Rajat Patidar, who produced one of the most explosive knocks in IPL playoff history.
Patidar smashed an unbeaten 93 off just 33 deliveries, hammering five boundaries and nine towering sixes at a stunning strike rate above 280. His aggressive partnership with Krunal Pandya completely changed the momentum of the game as the duo dismantled GT’s bowling attack during the death overs. RCB accumulated 86 runs in the final five overs, leaving Gujarat with a near-impossible target.
Chasing 255 under pressure, Gujarat Titans never looked settled. RCB’s pace attack made full use of the conditions, striking repeatedly during the Powerplay to put GT on the back foot immediately. Jacob Duffy starred with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rasikh Salam, and Krunal Pandya chipped in with two wickets each.
Despite a fighting knock from Rahul Tewatia, who scored 68 off 43 balls, Gujarat Titans were eventually bowled out for 162. With this commanding victory, RCB have now secured a direct entry into the IPL 2026 final and will head into the title clash with tremendous confidence. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will get another opportunity in Qualifier 2 as they prepare for a must-win encounter in Mullanpur.
