Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their remarkable rise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Chasing a modest target of 156, RCB reached 161/5 in just 18 overs to become only the third franchise in tournament history to successfully defend an IPL title.
Virat Kohli once again delivered on the biggest stage, remaining unbeaten on 75 off 42 balls and guiding the chase with his trademark composure. Earlier, RCB’s bowlers laid the foundation for victory by restricting Gujarat Titans to 155/8, with Rasikh Salam Dar claiming three wickets while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood chipped in with two apiece.
The triumph secured RCB’s second IPL title and added another chapter to the legacy of several players who have enjoyed extraordinary success in the competition.
Players to win five or more IPL titles
The IPL has witnessed countless stars over the years, but sustained success remains one of the toughest achievements in franchise cricket. While several players have enjoyed memorable title-winning seasons, only six cricketers have been part of five or more championship-winning campaigns. Here is a look at the six players who have achieved the remarkable feat.
1. Rohit Sharma (6 titles)
Rohit Sharma sits at the top of this elite list with six IPL titles to his name. The Indian captain was part of the Deccan Chargers side that won the tournament in 2009 before establishing a dynasty with Mumbai Indians (MI). Under his leadership, Mumbai lifted the trophy in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, making Rohit the most successful player in IPL history in terms of title victories.
2. Ambati Rayudu (6 titles)
Ambati Rayudu shares the record with Rohit, having also won six IPL trophies. Three of those titles came with Mumbai Indians in 2013, 2015 and 2017, while he added another three with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2018, 2021 and 2023. Rayudu’s ability to perform different roles across franchises made him one of the most valuable contributors in IPL history.
3. MS Dhoni (5 titles)
MS Dhoni remains synonymous with success in the IPL. The legendary Chennai Super Kings captain guided the franchise to titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023. His leadership, tactical awareness and ability to thrive under pressure transformed CSK into one of the most consistent teams in the competition.
4. Kieron Pollard (5 titles)
Kieron Pollard was one of the cornerstones of Mumbai Indians’ golden era. The explosive Trinidadian all-rounder played key roles in the franchise’s title-winning campaigns in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. Whether with the bat, ball or in the field, Pollard repeatedly delivered in crucial moments throughout his IPL career.
5. Hardik Pandya (5 titles)
Hardik Pandya has enjoyed title-winning success with multiple franchises. He was part of Mumbai Indians’ championship-winning squads in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020 before captaining GT to their maiden IPL crown in 2022. His contributions as a dynamic all-rounder have made him one of the standout performers of the modern IPL era.
6. Krunal Pandya (5 titles)
Krunal Pandya joined this exclusive club after Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s triumph in IPL 2026. The all-rounder previously won four titles with Mumbai Indians in 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2025 before adding another championship with RCB. Known for his versatility and ability to contribute in pressure situations, Krunal has quietly built one of the most decorated IPL careers among active players.
Also IPL 2026 [WATCH]: Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma hit the dance floor after RCB’s title triumph
