RCB Vs GT Live Score, IPL 2026 Final: Kohli Leads Bengaluru To Title; Sooryavanshi Named MVP

And with that, the IPL 2026 season comes to a close.

Rajat Patidar receives the IPL trophy before lifting it aloft to spark celebrations among the Royal Challengers Bengaluru players and support staff. 

RCB arrived in Ahmedabad as defending champions and leave as champions once again. 

The result caps a dominant season for Bengaluru, who finished top of the league table, won Qualifier 1 and then delivered on the biggest stage. Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, can reflect on another strong campaign that ended one step short of the trophy.

Thank you for following our coverage throughout the season. Until next time, goodbye.

Rajat Patidar reflected on captaining Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a second consecutive IPL title after the victory over Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.

Rajat Patidar: "It feels superb. When we came here there was a lot of memories of last year. I don't have words to express but feeling very good."

The RCB captain said the plan became straightforward once his side won the toss.

Patidar: "It was clear planning. When we win the toss, it was easy to chase."

He also praised the bowlers for laying the platform for victory.

Patidar: "The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP Suyash and Shepherd, they bowled really well throughout the tournament."

On his personal journey, Patidar added: "I never dreamt of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was written. Grateful for that."

Patidar felt the squad entered the season with greater belief than a year ago and highlighted the role of the supporters.

Patidar: "We were slightly more confident than last year. Everywhere it felt like a home ground for us with the fans coming in."

He also credited the work done before the tournament and the guidance he received from Dinesh Karthik.

Patidar: "The pre tournament prep was very good for me. I tried to analyze which shots are good for me. I got so many inputs from DK, which were helpful for me."

Patidar reserved special praise for Virat Kohli before signing off with a message to the supporters.

Patidar: "He (Virat Kohli) is always there for the team. This one is for you again, RCB fans. Ee Sala nu Cup Namdu."

Shubman Gill felt Gujarat Titans were left with too much to do after an underwhelming batting display in the IPL 2026 final.

Shubman Gill: "Definitely. If we would have got close to 180-190, it would have been a good match."

The GT captain pointed to the early wickets and the conditions during the powerplay as key factors in the innings.

Gill: "First three four overs there is some movement for the fast bowlers and we lost momentum after losing a couple of early wickets."

He also felt Gujarat conceded slightly too many runs during RCB's chase.

Gill: "We gave away 15-20 runs in the powerplay."

Despite the defeat, Gill praised his side's efforts throughout the season.

Gill: "I think we were one of the best bowling sides in the tournament. After losing the first couple of games we came back. Very happy."

Looking back on the campaign, he added: "We couldn't get over the line but there would have always been areas to improve even if we won the trophy."

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi spoke after being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of IPL 2026, capping a remarkable season for the Rajasthan Royals teenager.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: "It feels good but I feel a bit under pressure having to give the interview."

In a light-hearted moment, he added: "Sir, I am not drinking milk nowadays."

Reflecting on his development as a batter, Sooryavanshi said: "How to play each game, you can't play every game the same way."

The 15-year-old also highlighted the importance of improving his fitness.

Sooryavanshi: "If I have to stay injury free I have to work on my fitness."

Thanking those around him, he added: "Everyone is very supportive. All senior players, support staff, everyone backs me and it's a good atmosphere."

Sooryavanshi finishes IPL 2026 as the MVP, Orange Cap winner, Emerging Player of the Season, Super Striker of the Season, and Super Sixes leader, completing one of the most decorated individual campaigns in tournament history.

Sai Sudharsan is recognised for scoring the most boundaries in IPL 2026.

The Gujarat Titans opener struck 75 fours during the season, finishing ahead of the rest of the field in the category.

Mohammed Siraj receives the award for bowling the most dot balls in IPL 2026.

The Gujarat Titans fast bowler delivered 172 dot balls during the season, highlighting his consistency and control across the campaign.

Punjab Kings are presented with the Fair Play Award for IPL 2026.

The award recognises the team that best upheld the spirit of the game throughout the tournament.

Kagiso Rabada is awarded the Purple Cap after finishing IPL 2026 as the tournament's leading wicket-taker.

The Gujarat Titans pacer ends the season with 29 wickets, edging out RCB's Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the race for the award.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi caps off a sensational IPL 2026 campaign by sweeping several of the tournament's biggest individual honours.

The 15-year-old is named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Season, underlining his status as one of the standout performers of the tournament.

Sooryavanshi also wins the Emerging Player of the Season award after a breakthrough campaign with Rajasthan Royals.

The teenager is recognised as the Super Striker of the Season for finishing with a strike rate of 237, earning a car for topping the category.

He also takes home the Super Sixes of the Season award after smashing 72 sixes, the most by any player in IPL 2026.

Sooryavanshi also finished the season as the Orange Cap winner with 776 runs, becoming the youngest player ever to claim the award. The collection of honours caps one of the most remarkable individual campaigns in IPL history.

Virat Kohli is named Player of the Match after guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a successful chase in the IPL 2026 final.

Virat Kohli: "It's stuff that you dream of. Thought of this moment many times, to win the IPL and stand here."

Reflecting on the team environment, Kohli added: "The kind of team you gives you the confidence to see off any kind of situation. Such is the demand of the sport today. You have these young players pushing you hard and asking you to get better. You need to get those 20-30 runs extra. I had to change my mindset, not so much by game, to get those runs."

On RCB's approach throughout the season, he said: "Tha target was to finish top of the table. A lot of people asked who we would prefer to play in the play. But we didn't care of the jersey in front of us. We are a professional group."

Kohli also highlighted the confidence within the batting line-up: "They probably looked to get me out early but I had the confidence that even if I get out there is enough depth in the side to pull it off."

Speaking about the chase, he added: "There was total clarity and both of us wanted to strike. We had small targets in mind. Credit to Venkatesh as well. Stepped in and did a beautiful job."

The RCB star also praised the support his side received in Ahmedabad.

Kohli: "I always say that we don't have just 7 home games we have 14. GT are the home team here but probably 90% are RCB."

Bhuvneshwar Kumar put team success ahead of individual accolades after helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru retain the IPL title.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar: "Yes, the trophy is the most important. I would trade it with the purple cap."

Reflecting on his season, the veteran pacer said: "The season went well, there was a lot of planning ahead of it. If you take wickets, the confidence is up."

Bhuvneshwar also pointed to the role previous victories played in preparing the side for the final.

Bhuvneshwar: "Coming into a big game, past wins give you confidence. We were at our best and that's what we needed."

Matthew Hayden acknowledged Royal Challengers Bengaluru's bowling performance and reflected on Gujarat Titans' season following the IPL 2026 final.

Matthew Hayden: "We just couldn't get going quite in the powerplay. I thought it was an incredible bowling performance by RCB."

Hayden also spoke about the culture within the Gujarat Titans setup.

Hayden: "It's a very successful franchise. They have developed a nice fan base as well. What I love about this group is it doesn't do anything hurriedly. Ashish is quite chilled out. Family is the biggest thing in this franchise."

On the team's batting approach and his experience with the franchise, he added: "Batting I think we are a pretty conservative team. I have enjoyed my time and our support team has made it so much fun to be out here."

Hayden also highlighted the emergence of young talent during the tournament.

Hayden: "One thing the IPL brings out is young talent. It's exciting to watch the extraodinary Vaibha Sooryavanshi. All you youngsters watching out there just keep playing and keep learning from your heroes."

Josh Hazlewood reflected on another successful season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and praised both Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the franchise's support structure after the title triumph.

Josh Hazlewood: "This is right up there. We had to wait a long time for the first win last year."

Hazlewood also highlighted the impact made by Bhuvneshwar Kumar with the new ball throughout the campaign.

Hazlewood: "He (Bhuvi) got wickets up front nearly every game we played, so it's pretty nice."

Praising the work done behind the scenes, the Australian pacer added: "I think the franchise have put together beautifully. Great support staff. It's tough to build that culture so fast when the teams change every three years."

Jitesh Sharma credited Royal Challengers Bengaluru's mindset and the backing of the management after the franchise successfully defended its IPL title.

Beginning his remarks in Marathi, Jitesh said the squad never approached the season as defending champions.

Jitesh Sharma: "Like Mo said before, we're not defending, we're attacking and chasing something. The mindset was not to defend the title."

The wicketkeeper-batter also praised the support he received during difficult periods.

Jitesh: "Credit to the management, the way they nourished us, the way they backed me when I wasn't performing. This gives you plenty of assurance; you know they will back you and you want to give back something."

On RCB's approach throughout the campaign, he added: "We were strong, but we focused on one game at a time, we didn't think about the opponents, we just kept up with the process."

Looking ahead, Jitesh said: "Hopefully, we will get a third title."

Virat Kohli praised Royal Challengers Bengaluru's calm approach throughout the season and highlighted the collective contribution that helped the franchise retain the IPL title.

Virat Kohli: "I said to a few of the boys that there doesn't seem to be the same kind of pressure that was there last year. Composure of the guys shone through tonight."

Reflecting on the campaign, Kohli added: "After the break we had a couple of losses but we wanted to finish top. The win against MI gave us a lot of confidence."

The former RCB captain also pointed to the strength of the squad and the shared responsibility within the dressing room.

Kohli: "Just to have a group of guys where you don't feel that you are the only guy who has step up for the team is amazing."

Krunal Pandya reflected on Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successful title defence and credited the franchise's support staff for building another championship-winning squad.

Krunal Pandya: "There's no doubt about it, everything is special. It's like having kids, winning IPL titles is also hard to achieve, so everything feels special to me."

Praising the work done behind the scenes, he added: "A lot of credit goes to the support staff: Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, DK, Malolan. Half of the win is in the auction and we did a good job, I'm glad we went back-to-back for the trophies."

On what the achievement means to the franchise and its supporters, Krunal said: "18 years of waiting, back-to-back trophies, it's special and the supporters have been behind us."

He also reserved special praise for Virat Kohli, adding: "Also to Virat Kohli, waited 18 years and now winning two titles on the back."

The moment the winning runs are struck, Virat Kohli removes his helmet, raises his right hand and turns towards the dugout as the celebrations begin. Within seconds, his teammates sprint onto the field to embrace him as RCB secure a second IPL title.

The foundation for victory is laid in the first innings, where their bowlers restricted Gujarat Titans to 155/8 after removing Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan early. Washington Sundar's half-century gave GT something to defend, but the total never looked enough once Bengaluru's chase got underway.

Despite battling cramps, Venkatesh Iyer provided an explosive start, while Kohli took control of the contest with a commanding unbeaten innings. Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan briefly offered Gujarat hope with wickets in the middle overs, but RCB never lost their grip on the chase.

Virat Kohli finishes it in style.

Three runs come off the first four balls. Kohli pulls the 5th delivery from Arshad through midwicket for FOUR to level the score.

Then the RCB star clears the ropes for SIX to complete the chase and spark off wild celebrations as the RCB players storm onto the field. Kohli raises his arms in the middle to take in the moment after guiding Bengaluru to back-to-back IPL titles.

RCB 161/5 after 18 overs. 

Rashid Khan delivers another economical over, but the equation continues to favour Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli and Jitesh Sharma are content to play risk-free cricket, rotating the strike and denying Gujarat Titans any opening after the dramatic reprieve for Kohli in the previous over.

Rashid concedes just three runs from the over and finishes his spell with 2/25. RCB need just 8 runs off 18 balls. 

RCB 148/5 after 17 overs.

Virat Kohli gets a huge reprieve with the finish line in sight.

Shubman Gill appears to have produced a stunning low catch after Kohli chips Arshad Khan into the infield, but the third umpire is called into action to check whether the ball carried cleanly.

After multiple replays, the decision is overturned, with the ball deemed to have touched the ground during the catch attempt.

NOT OUT! Kohli survives.

The moment sparks animated reactions from both teams, as the GT captain Gill left disappointed after initially celebrating the wicket, while Kohli laughs it off.

RCB 145/5 after 16 overs.

Jitesh Sharma settles in quickly at the crease and keeps Bengaluru on course towards the target.

After Kohli takes a single off the first ball, Jitesh gets off the mark in style, shuffling across and driving Prasidh Krishna through extra cover for FOUR.

The wicketkeeper-batter adds a couple more runs later in the over as RCB take 7 runs off it. 

RCB 139/5 after 15 overs.

Gujarat Titans strike again, this time thanks to a sharp review from Arshad. 

Tim David looks to force Arshad Khan through the off side but only gets a faint edge back to Jos Buttler. The on-field umpire turns down the appeal, but GT immediately opt for DRS.

UltraEdge reveals a clear spike and the decision is overturned, handing Gujarat a crucial breakthrough.

WICKET! Tim David c Jos Buttler b Arshad Khan 24 (17)

The Australian departs after playing a useful hand that included one six and three boundaries, but with Virat Kohli still at the crease, RCB still remain favourites to complete the chase.

RCB 132/5 after 14 overs.

Tim David delivers a timely blow against Rashid Khan to keep Royal Challengers Bengaluru firmly in control of the chase.

After a series of singles from both batters, Rashid drops one short and David pounces, launching the leg-spinner over long-on for SIX despite not getting the shot perfectly out of the middle.

Virat Kohli continues to anchor the innings at the other end, although the RCB opener again requires brief attention from the physio before play resumes.

Bengaluru need 20 off 42 balls to win. 

RCB 126/4 after 13 overs.

Virat Kohli is determined to ensure RCB successfully defend their crown tonight. 

The former Bengaluru captain brings up his half-century in style, pulling Arshad Khan for FOUR to reach the landmark from just 25 balls, the fastest fifty of his IPL career.

Kohli acknowledges the applause from the Ahmedabad crowd before continuing to rotate the strike alongside Tim David as RCB keep the chase firmly under control.

RCB 116/4 after 12 overs.

Rashid Khan continues to keep things tight, but Tim David ensures RCB get a boundary in the over.

Virat Kohli picks up a couple of runs and a single before briefly requiring attention from the physio after showing signs of discomfort. The RCB opener is able to continue after a short break.

Tim David then ends the over with a boundary, flashing hard outside off and getting enough of an edge to beat the slip fielder and race away to third man for FOUR.

Bengaluru need 47 from 54 balls to win. 

RCB 109/4 after 11 overs.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru respond well after Rashid Khan's double strike in the previous over.

Virat Kohli gets things moving with a boundary down the leg side before rotating the strike to keep the scoreboard ticking. Tim David then makes an immediate impact, pulling Jason Holder through the leg side for FOUR to get off the mark and bring up RCB's 100.

9 runs come off the over. 

RCB 100/4 after 10 overs.

Rashid Khan breathes life back into the contest with a superb first over.

The Afghanistan spinner first removes Rajat Patidar, who looks to take him on but can only find Kagiso Rabada at long-on who takes a sharp overhead catch right at the edge of the boundary. 

WICKET! Rajat Patidar c Kagiso Rabada b Rashid Khan 15 (13)

Rashid then strikes again three balls later as Krunal Pandya misses a sweep and is trapped lbw. The all-rounder opts against a review and begins the walk back immediately.

WICKET! Krunal Pandya lbw b Rashid Khan 1 (2)

Virat Kohli remains at the crease, but GT have suddenly injected some uncertainty into what had looked a comfortable chase.

RCB 91/4 after 9 overs.

Rajat Patidar continues to keep the scoreboard moving as Bengaluru take a measured approach.

Jason Holder is introduced into the attack, and does well to restrict the batters to just three singels off the first five balls. However, the RCB captain caps off the over with a commanding pull through mid-wicket for FOUR.

A productive over nonetheless for RCB as 7 runs come off it.

RCB 88/2 after 8 overs.

Rajat Patidar joins the party.

The RCB captain welcomes Mohammed Siraj with a powerful pull over deep backward square leg for SIX before adding a couple of singles and a brace later in the over.

There is also a brief exchange involving Virat Kohli and Sai Sudharsan in the middle, but the focus quickly returns to the cricket as Bengaluru continue to tick along at a healthy rate.

Siraj bowls out with 1/36 from four overs, with RCB just 75 runs away from victory.

RCB 81/2 after 7 overs.

Kagiso Rabada follows up Siraj's over with another breakthrough as Gujarat fight back.

Devdutt Padikkal looks to make room and go over the off side, but can only slice the ball high towards third man. Arshad Khan is the man under it and he takes a safe catch.

WICKET! Devdutt Padikkal c Arshad Khan b Kagiso Rabada 1 (4)

Rajat Patidar walks out and survives a testing start against the South African, who beats the RCB captain outside off and keeps him quiet. But Kohli ensures Bengaluru finish the powerplay on a positive note, top-edging a pull over the ropes for SIX.

Just 7 runs and a wicket come off over. 

RCB 70/2 after 6 overs.

Mohammed Siraj finally gives Gujarat Titans a breakthrough after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's flying start.

Venkatesh Iyer begins the over with a top-edged SIX over the deep fielders, but Siraj responds immediately with another short ball. This time the left-hander cannot clear the infield, skewing his pull towards mid-on where Kagiso Rabada completes the catch.

WICKET! Venkatesh Iyer c Kagiso Rabada b Mohammed Siraj 32 (16)

The left-hander's aggressive knock gives RCB the platform they were looking for, while Devdutt Padikkal arrives at No. 3 with Bengaluru still firmly in control of the chase. Padikkal gets off the mark with a single off the last ball. 

RCB 56/1 after 5 overs.

Virat Kohli shifts through the gears and puts Bengaluru firmly on top.

The RCB opener takes on Kagiso Rabada, smacking four back-to-back boundaries against the South African. 

Kohli starts with a flick off the pads for FOUR before whipping the next ball through midwicket for another FOUR. Kohli then brings out the best shot of the lot as he uses his wrists to send the 3rd delivery flying over mid-on for SIX. 

Kohli isn't done yet as he pulls the 4th ball through midwicket for FOUR. He then takes a single off the 5th to ensure he's on strike for the next. 19 runs come off the over. 

RCB 55/0 after 4 overs.

Virat Kohli gets going after playing second fiddle to Venkatesh Iyer in the previous over.

The former RCB captain takes strike for the over and starts off with a flick against former teammate Mohammed Siraj through fine leg for FOUR before pulling another boundary through the leg side on the 3rd delivery. Venkatesh then adds to GT's frustration with a boundary of his own, muscling a short ball over the infield for FOUR more

The runs continue to flow for Bengaluru as 13 runs come off the over.

RCB 36/0 after 3 overs.

Venkatesh Iyer puts aside his early discomfort and launches a counterattack against GT's leading marksman Kagiso Rabada.

The left-hander starts the over with a boundary over cover-point before whipping Rabada over mid-wicket for the first SIX of the chase. He then adds another boundary straight down the ground as RCB seize the early initiative.

Venkatesh finishes the over with a streaky edge over the wicketkeeper for a fourth boundary, ensuring RCB take 18 runs off the over. Kohli has mainly been restricted to the other end having only faced one delivery. 

RCB 23/0 after 2 overs.

Mohammed Siraj begins with a disciplined opening over as Gujarat Titans look to make early inroads in the chase.

There is a hint of movement on offer for the former RCB pacer, who keeps Iyer quiet during the first six balls.

There's a concern for Bengaluru when Venkatesh is hit on the knee during the over with the physio coming out. The left-hander however is able to continue as he picks up a couple of runs off the final 5th delivery and ends the over with a single.

RCB 5/0 after 1 over.

The chase is about to begin in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer are out in the middle to open the batting for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who need 156 runs to lift the IPL 2026 trophy. 

Gujarat Titans have activated their Impact Player, bringing Prasidh Krishna into the attack in place of Rahul Tewatia. Meanwhile, it will be a familiar face with the new ball as former RCB man Mohammed Siraj prepares to bowl the first over of the chase with a slip in place.

The mid-innings entertainment has wrapped up in Ahmedabad and attention now turns to the run chase.

A musical performance by Padma Shri Kailash Kher entertained the crowd during the break, with players from both teams now back on the field preparing for the second innings.

Gujarat Titans' bowlers are going through their warm-up routines as Royal Challengers Bengaluru get ready to begin their pursuit of 156 to make it back-to-back IPL titles. 

Gujarat Titans finish on 155/8, coincidentally the same total Royal Challengers Bengaluru were restricted to when these sides met at this venue during the league stage.

RCB dominated the first half of the innings after Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan inside the powerplay. GT's decision to promote Nishant Sindhu to No. 3 failed to pay off, while Jos Buttler struggled to accelerate as the innings lost momentum.

The hosts reached 63/3 at the halfway stage before Washington Sundar led the recovery. The left-hander survived an early scare when a catch was ruled not out after replays showed the ball had touched the ground, and he went on to score a fighting half-century.

There were useful contributions from Arshad Khan and the lower order, but RCB's bowlers kept Gujarat in check for most of the innings. Krunal Pandya was outstanding in the middle overs, while Rasikh Salam Dar produced one of his best spells of the season as Bengaluru limited GT to a target of 156 in the IPL 2026 final.

Washington Sundar produces a fighting half-century, but Gujarat Titans are unable to find the late flourish they were searching for.

Rashid Khan briefly threatens to provide some momentum with a six over long-on on the 1st delivery of the over. However, he falls on the very next delivery as Rasikh bangs it short and Rashid pulls it straight to Romario Shepherd in the deep.

WICKET! Rashid Khan c Romario Shepherd b Rasikh Salam Dar 7 (3)

Sundar remains unbeaten and brings up a valuable FIFTY from 37 balls with a single off the penultinate delivery, but RCB deny them a straong finish. 

Just 10 runs and a wicket come off the over. 

GT 155/8 after 20 overs.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivers another important breakthrough just as Gujarat Titans look to accelerate.

Washington Sundar starts the over with a boundary through the leg side, but Bhuvneshwar responds by forcing a miscued pull from Jason Holder. The ball flies high into the night sky and Josh Hazlewood settles under it at short third man.

WICKET! Jason Holder c Josh Hazlewood b Bhuvneshwar Kumar 7 (5)

Sundar continues to pick up runs at the other end, but the wicket prevents GT from fully capitalising on their late momentum.

Bhuvneshwar finishes his spell with 2/23, moving level with Kagiso Rabada on 28 wickets in the race for the Purple Cap.

GT 145/7 after 19 overs.

Gujarat Titans finally find some momentum at the death with their best over in a while.

Washington Sundar gets things going with a boundary down the leg side before adding another FOUR with a well-timed flick through mid-wicket. RCB briefly think they have Sundar caught behind and review a wide call, but UltraEdge confirms there is no contact and the review is lost.

Jason Holder then caps off the over in style, clearing his front leg and hammering a half-volley straight back past Josh Hazlewood for FOUR.

A welcome boost for GT as 16 runs come off the over.

GT 137/6 after 18 overs.

Rasikh Salam Dar continues his impressive spell with another breakthrough for Royal Challengers Bengaluru off his first delivery.

Rahul Tewatia looks to take on the pacer but fails to get hold of a slower delivery outside off. The miscued slog balloons towards mid-on, where Rajat Patidar keeps his eyes on the ball and completes a comfortable catch.

WICKET! Rahul Tewatia c Rajat Patidar b Rasikh Salam Dar 7 (5)

Jason Holder walks out to bat and gets off the mark with a single. Rasikh gives away just 6 runs in the over while taking one wicket. 

GT 121/6 after 17 overs.

Gujarat Titans pick up some valuable runs against Bhuvneshwar Kumar as they look to build a finishing platform.

Washington Sundar keeps the scoreboard moving with a couple of twos through the off and leg sides before Rahul Tewatia produces the shot of the over. The left-hander waits on a short ball and cleverly ramps it over the wicketkeeper for FOUR.

Bhuvneshwar remains disciplined overall, but GT take 10 runs from the over.

GT 115/5 after 16 overs.

Josh Hazlewood strikes immediately on his return to halt Gujarat Titans' brief resurgence.

After hitting two sixes in his six-ball cameo, Arshad Khan looks to take on another short ball but can only top-edge the pull. Rasikh Salam Dar makes no mistake at short fine leg as RCB claim their fifth wicket.

WICKET! Arshad Khan c Rasikh Salam Dar b Josh Hazlewood 15 (6)

Rahul Tewatia arrives at the crease and rotates the strike alongside Washington Sundar, but Hazlewood keeps a lid on the scoring after the early breakthrough.

RCB continue to dictate proceedings as GT search for a late-innings push.

GT 105/5 after 15 overs.

Gujarat Titans finally find some much-needed momentum in Jacob Duffy's final over.

Washington Sundar gets the over going with back-to-back boundaries off Duffy, first pulling through the leg side for FOUR before benefitting from a thick edge that races away past the keeper for FOUR more.

Arshad Khan then continues his counterattack, clearing the sightscreen with a straight SIX after Duffy's slower ball lands right in the slot.

A much-needed release for GT as 16 runs come off the over.

GT 99/4 after 14 overs.

Krunal Pandya delivers another huge moment for Bengaluru, removing Buttler just as the England batter looks set to accelerate.

Spotting Buttler advancing down the track, Krunal fires a wide delivery beyond his reach and Jitesh Sharma completes a sharp stumping to catch the GT man short. 

WICKET! Jos Buttler st Jitesh Sharma b Krunal Pandya 19 (23)

Gujarat respond with a rare moment of aggression as Arshad Khan is promoted up the order and he launches the first six of the IPL 2026 final, clearing the mid-wicket boundary with a clean strike off Krunal.

Despite the late boundary, RCB concede just 10 runs off the over.

GT 83/4 after 13 overs.

Jacob Duffy continues to keep Gujarat in check as the pressure builds on the batting side.

Jos Buttler looks to increase the scoring rate but is unable to find the boundary, with RCB's fielders cutting off every opportunity. Washington Sundar and Buttler are restricted to singles throughout the over as Duffy varies his pace effectively.

With no boundaries and just six singles coming from the over, RCB remain firmly on top in the middle overs.

GT 73/3 after 12 overs.

Washington Sundar gets a major reprieve in the final ball of the over.

Jacob Duffy nearly adds to RCB's tally of wickets with another short-ball dismissal as Sundar mistimes a pull towards fine leg. Jordan Cox appears to have completed a good diving catch, but the third umpire intervenes and replays show the ball brushing the turf during the take.

NOT OUT! Sundar survives after a lengthy review, much to the frustration of the RCB players.

Apart from the late drama, Duffy keeps things tight as Gujarat continue to rebuild through Jos Buttler and Sundar.

GT 63/3 after 10 overs.

Krunal continues to squeeze Gujarat in the middle overs.

Washington Sundar walks out to bat but neither he or Buttler are able to break free against the left-arm spinner. Krunal sticks to a tight line and length, conceding just four singles in another economical over.

GT 59/3 after 9 overs.

Rasikh Salam Dar strikes at a crucial moment to leave Gujarat Titans three down.

After surviving a testing spell from RCB's seamers, Nishant Sindhu looks to break the shackles by advancing down the pitch. Rasikh spots the movement, bangs the ball in short and forces a miscue.

The left-hander can only flat-bat the pull towards the deep, where Devdutt Padikkal completes a comfortable catch near the boundary.

WICKET! Nishant Sindhu c Devdutt Padikkal b Rasikh Salam Dar 20 (18)

Jos Buttler remains at the crease as GT search for a partnership to rebuild the innings.

GT 55/3 after 8 overs.

Krunal Pandya is introduced immediately after the powerplay and delivers a tidy start.

The left-arm spinner gives away just five singles in the over as Buttler and Sindhu opt against taking any risks, focusing instead on rebuilding after the early dismissals of both openers.

Excellent start from Krunal as just 5 runs come off it. 

GT 50/2 after 7 overs.

Nishant Sindhu tries to to keep the scoreboard ticking, but can only find a single boundary in the final over of the powerplay as Rasikh Salam Dar comes into the attack. 

Rasikh gets off to a good start, with just 2 runs coming off the first four balls. He loses his line on the 5th delivery as it slips down leg and Nishant helps it along past fine leg for FOUR.

It's an excellent end to the powerplay for RCB as just 6 runs come off it. 

GT 45/2 after 6 overs.

Nishant Sindhu helps Gujarat steady themselves with a couple of boundaries against Hazlewood.

The left-hander first flashes hard at a short-of-length delivery and gets enough on it to beat the fielders in the cover-point region for FOUR. He then picks up another boundary with a late dab that races away after slipping through Bhuvneshwar Kumar's hands at deep third man for back-to-back FOURs. 

Hazlewood responds well as he gives away just a single off the last three balls. 

GT 39/2 after 5 overs.

Bhuvneshwar lands another early blow as GT lose both openers early in the final.

After troubling Sudharsan with a sharp short ball earlier in the over, the veteran seamer goes back to the bumper and gets his reward. Sudharsan looks to pull but only manages a top edge, with Jitesh Sharma running across to take a good catch.

WICKET! Sai Sudharsan c Jitesh Sharma b Bhuvneshwar Kumar 12 (12)

Jos Buttler walks in at No. 4 and gets off the mark immediately, helping the final ball of the over fine for FOUR. RCB are off to a flying start here with just 6 runs and a wicket coming from this over. 

GT 30/2 after 4 overs.

Josh Hazlewood strikes in his first over to hand the defending champions a massive early breakthrough.

Gill starts the over well as he welcomes Hazlewood with a fierce pull through midwicket for FOUR. 

He then looks to take on the Australian again, this time with his trademark short-arm pull, but Hazlewood extracts extra bounce from a hard length and forces a miscue. The GT captain can only slice the ball high towards mid-off, where Rajat Patidar settles under the catch.

WICKET! Shubman Gill c Rajat Patidar b Josh Hazlewood 10 (8)

Nishant Sindhu, left handed bat, walks out to bat and gets off the mark with a single. It's an excellent start from Hazlewood as just 2 runs and a wicket come off it. 

GT 24/1 after 3 overs.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar comes into the attack and immediately tests Gill with some disciplined new-ball bowling.

The GT skipper is beaten outside off on the 2nd delivery but responds with a classy boundary, stepping down the track and punching Bhuvneshwar through cover for FOUR on the very next ball.

Apart from that solitary boundary, Bhuvneshwar keeps things tight and gives away only another single. 

Just five runs come off the over.

GT 18/0 after 2 overs.

Sai Sudharsan gets Gujarat off to a flyer but not without some drama! 

The GT opener gets off to a good start as smacks Duffy for back-to-back FOURs to get off the mark in style. The 3rd delivery is glanced past fine leg to the fence before the next delivery is crunched past mid-off. 

GIVEN OUT & REVIEWED! Sudharsan then has a wild slash at the 5th delivery that's sliding down leg and RCB immediately go up in appeal for caught behind with the Umpire agreeing and raising his finger. Sudarsan isn't convinced though and immediately goes for the review. Ultraedge shows there's no edge and the GT opener survives an early scare. The delivery is instead given wide and has to be redelivered. 

Sudarshan taps the next ball to point for a single. Gill meanwhile flicks the last ball to square leg to get off the mark with a single. 

13 runs come off the opening over. 

GT 13/0 after the first over. 

We're ready to go in Ahmedabad!

Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill walk out to open the batting for Gujarat Titans, with the home side looking to make a strong start in the IPL 2026 final.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have sprung an early surprise, handing the new ball to Jacob Duffy ahead of Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The New Zealand seamer will bowl the opening over of the title decider.

Rajat Patidar (RCB Captain): We'll bowl first. (On the surface) It's a pretty good wicket. The ball will come nicely on the bat, but to be honest, it will not change in the 40 overs. So we'll try to get them early as possible. (On the Mood in the dressing room) A lot of memories last year, but I think it was in 2025. It's 2026. We have to do our best to win this match. (On managing pressure) That's important, to keep yourself in the present, not to be too much far ahead. Let's control the controllables, that's it. (On the support) Always we love to play in this stadium because of the crowd, the way they came and especially the RCB supporters - 12th man army. They came in every stadium and supported us. (On the team combination) The same team.

Shubman Gill (GT Captain): We would have batted first. Typical wicket, third match we are playing here. There could be some movement for the fast bowlers in the first three overs. One of the biggest stadiums in the world. We've got one change. Arshad (Khan) comes in for Sai (Kishore).

The playing XIs are in for the IPL 2026 final, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru opting for an unchanged side after their Qualifier 1 victory.

Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, have made one change with Arshad coming in to replace Sai Kishore.

Gujarat Titans (Playing XI): Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Nishant Sindhu, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Arshad Khan, Mohammed Siraj.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have won the toss and elected to bowl first in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The decision follows the recent trend at the venue, where chasing sides have enjoyed success, while conditions are also expected to remain favourable for batting later in the evening.

The IPL 2026 final will be played on Pitch No. 6 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, with Ian Bishop and Aaron Finch offering their observations about the surface in the pitch report, saying it should offer plenty for the batters while potentially favouring the chasing side.

According to their pitch report, the wicket is a mixed-soil surface with both square boundaries measuring around 66 metres, ensuring there is no obvious advantage on either side of the ground. The pair noted that the pitch looks flat and even, although it may play slightly slower than some of the other surfaces used at the venue this season.

They do not expect significant assistance for spin, with fast bowlers likely to rely on the hard lengths and hit-the-deck approach that has worked throughout the tournament.

The pair also felt conditions could improve as the match progresses, making chasing the preferred option for the captain winning the toss.

Gujarat Titans assistant coach Parthiv Patel believes playing the IPL final in Ahmedabad gives his side familiarity with the conditions, but stressed that execution on the day will be the key factor.

"There is an advantage, yes. We know the conditions are very good. We know the conditions very well. That remains an advantage. Mostly, in a final match, your effort is to get a good start and then proceed."

Patel also downplayed concerns over GT's delayed return from Chandigarh following Qualifier 2, insisting the occasion outweighs any fatigue.

"Obviously, the weather was not in our control. But we keep watching. Our thinking is that we know we have come to play the IPL final. So fatigue does not matter that much. For every player, there is only one thing on their mind: to win the match for the team and make a name for themselves. So all our players are thinking in this direction because no player can get a bigger match or a better opportunity than this."

The former India wicketkeeper backed Gujarat's middle order to deliver if called upon, pointing to the contributions made throughout the season.

"Our top order has batted very well throughout the tournament. They have contributed every time. And whenever an opportunity arose, whether it was Washington Sundar, the lower order, or Rahul Tewatia - everyone has contributed. Everyone has performed well. So as we said, if they get an opportunity today, I am sure they will perform well."

Asked about playing on the same pitch used during GT's league-stage win over RCB, Patel said familiarity helps, but finals are decided by execution.

"As you rightly said, these things do not matter much in a final match. You try to execute the plans you have made. And since it is our home ground, we know how the conditions are, where they change, what kind of conditions they are. But certainly, we have to play well."

Patel also praised the role of the franchise's backroom staff during pressure situations.

"The Titans support staff are like family. The support and backup we receive from them is immense and they help us during close games and in pressure situations."

The GT opening pair of Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill became the first duo in men's T20 cricket history to register 11 century partnership, cementing their status as one of the formats most legendary batting partnerships. 

Now they find themselves on the brink of another record. 

The GT pair need 54 more runs to surpass Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers' record of 939 runs as a batting pair in a single IPL season, set during RCB's 2016 campaign.

Their importance to GT's success this season is reflected in the results. Gujarat have won six of the seven matches in which Gill and Sudharsan have remained together beyond the fifth over, underlining the value of their opening partnership.

Devdutt Padikkal also took on a quick-fire Q&A ahead of the IPL 2026 final, speaking about the player he grew up watching, the story behind his jersey number, his favourite shot and more.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 final, Sai Sudharsan sits down for a quick-fire Q&A, opening up on his cricketing idols, favourite innings, pre-match routines and more. 

The IPL 2026 final will be played on a pitch that has already seen action twice this season, including the league-stage meeting between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans. 

GT dismantled RCB for just 155 in that game, becoming the first team this season to bowl out the defending champions, before chasing down the target inside 16 overs.  

Recent history at the Narendra Modi Stadium suggests chasing could hold an advantage, with teams batting second enjoying success at the venue. Four of the last six IPL finals have also been won by the side chasing, adding another layer of intrigue to the toss.

The IPL has released its latest promo ahead of tonight's final as Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans prepare to fight for the trophy in Ahmedabad.

Gujarat Titans are unlikely to make major changes after their Qualifier 2 victory, backing the same Playing XI. 

GT Possible XI: Shubman Gill (C), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (WK), Washington Sundar, Nishant Sindhu, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj.

Impact Sub: R Sai Kishore.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru could receive a timely boost ahead of the final with Phil Salt in contention to return to the XI. If the opener is unavailable, Venkatesh Iyer is expected to continue after impressing during Salt's absence.

RCB Possible XI: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt/Venkatesh Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (C), Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Duffy/Suyash Sharma.

Impact Sub: Rasikh Salam.

The stage is set and the countdown is on as the official broadcaster releases its latest promo for the IPL 2026 final.

After winning the title in their debut season in 2022 and losing to CSK a year later in 2023, Gujarat Titans booked their place in their third IPL final after finishing second in the league stage and successfully navigating Qualifier 2.

After finishing second in the league phase with nine wins from 14 matches, GT earned two opportunities to reach the title clash. Their first attempt ended in disappointment as they suffered a heavy defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1.

The Titans responded emphatically in Qualifier 2 against Rajasthan Royals. Chasing 215, Shubman Gill struck a superb century while Sai Sudharsan added 58 as GT completed the highest successful chase in IPL playoff history to seal a seven-wicket victory.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a direct place in the IPL 2026 final after a dominant run through the league stage and playoffs.

RCB finished at the top of the points table after winning nine out of their 14 games and also registering the league's best Net Run Rate of 0.783. That run earned Rajat Patidar's team two chances to make it to the final. They made the most of their first chance in Qualifier 1, defeating Gujarat Titans by 92 runs in Dharamshala.

The defending champions posted 254/5, the highest team total in IPL playoff history, with Rajat Patidar leading the charge with an unbeaten 93 off 33 balls. The bowlers then completed a comprehensive victory to send RCB straight into the final.

Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the IPL 2026 final from the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Gujarat Titans with the trophy on the line in what promises to be a fitting end to the season. The final brings together two of the top performing teams this season, with both RCB and GT finishing in the top two spots on the league table with identical records of nine wins and five defeats.

We'll bring you all the build-up, updates on the Toss, team news, key moments and live score updates as they unfold throughout the evening with RCB and GT battling it out for the IPL crown.