“It feels superb”: Rajat Patidar Rajat ecstatic as RCB clinch back-to-back IPL t – It feels superb: Rajat Patidar Rajat ecstatic as RCB clinch back-to-back IPL t
A Historic Triumph in Ahmedabad
In a display of sheer dominance and tactical brilliance, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have successfully defended their Indian Premier League crown. The 2026 IPL final, held at the daunting Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, saw the Challengers overcome the home-side Gujarat Titans to secure back-to-back titles. This victory places RCB in an elite club, becoming only the third team in the history of the league to achieve such a feat, joining the ranks of the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
Masterful Planning and Tactical Execution
Under the leadership of captain Rajat Patidar, RCB approached the summit clash with a level of precision that has defined their season. Winning the toss on a surface that appeared tricky, Patidar made the bold decision to bowl first, putting immense pressure on the Gujarat Titans’ batting order. The plan was executed to perfection as the RCB bowling unit dismantled the Titans’ top order early on.
Rasikh Salam was the standout performer, taking 3 wickets for 25 runs in his four-over spell. He was ably supported by the seasoned duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who picked up two wickets each. Despite a valiant, unbeaten 50 off 37 deliveries from Washington Sundar, the Gujarat Titans could only muster a total of 155/8, a target that the Bengaluru side felt confident in chasing down under the lights.
Kohli’s Masterclass in the Chase
The second innings began with a cautious approach, but soon transformed into a display of clinical batting. Venkatesh Iyer provided a flying start alongside Virat Kohli, setting the tempo for the remainder of the chase. Although the Gujarat Titans managed a brief resurgence by claiming the wickets of Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Patidar, and Krunal Pandya, the ‘Chase-Master’ remained unfazed.
Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a majestic, unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, punctuated by nine boundaries and three towering sixes. His partnership with Tim David proved to be the final nail in the coffin for the Titans, as RCB reached the target with five wickets and 12 balls to spare. Kohli’s ability to remain composed under pressure was once again the highlight of the night, proving why he remains the cornerstone of the franchise.
Rajat Patidar’s Emotional Reaction
For the man at the helm, the victory was more than just a trophy; it was a surreal achievement. Reflecting on the win, the RCB skipper expressed his profound joy. “It feels superb,” Rajat Patidar remarked during the post-match ceremony. “When we came here, there were a lot of memories of last year. I don’t have words to express but I am feeling very good. It was clear planning. When we won the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP Suyash, and Shepherd bowled throughout the tournament was exceptional.”
Patidar further reflected on his unexpected journey to the captaincy. “I never dreamt of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was written. I am grateful for that. We were slightly more confident than last year. Everywhere it felt like a home ground for us with the fans coming in. The pre-tournament prep was very good for me. I analyzed which shots are good for me, and I received great inputs from DK, which were very helpful. He is always there for the team.”
A Legacy Cemented
This championship victory marks a new era for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. By successfully defending their title in front of a capacity crowd in Ahmedabad, the team has proven that their maiden success in the previous season was no fluke. With a balanced squad and a leader who understands the value of preparation and team support, RCB has established themselves as the team to beat for the foreseeable future. The fans, who have backed the team through every high and low, can now celebrate another year of dominance in the IPL.
