Gujarat Titans won the toss and decided to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.

The fixture carries significant importance as it determines a direct entry into the final.

Each side introduced a single alteration to its line-up. Gujarat Titans included Kulwant Khejrolia in place of Arshad Khan. Royal Challengers Bengaluru brought Jacob Duffy back into the side, replacing Romario Shepherd.

The playoff format ensures that the winner of Qualifier 1 secures a place in the final. The team that loses will still have an opportunity to qualify through the second qualifier.

GT captain Shubman Gill explained that his team preferred to chase, citing the likelihood of dew later in the match. He pointed out that such conditions often make batting easier in the second innings at this venue.

Gill added that the team has been performing consistently and intends to maintain that rhythm. He also mentioned his familiarity with the ground from his early playing days.

RCB skipper Rajat Patidar said the pitch appeared firm and well-suited for batting. He expressed confidence that the surface would remain stable across both innings.

Patidar noted that his side aims to set a challenging target and maintain pressure, while continuing to rely on its strengths rather than focusing on the opposition.

Both teams ended the league phase with 18 points each, with RCB finishing on top due to a superior net run rate. Their encounters this season have been evenly contested, underlining the competitive nature of the tie.