The Gujarat Titans (GT) delivered a clinical performance at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, defeating the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) , by four wickets.
In a match that showcased GT's bowling depth and aggressive batting intent, the home side successfully chased down a modest target of 156 with 25 balls to spare.
This victory was particularly sweet for the Titans, as it avenged their earlier defeat to RCB in Bengaluru and provided a significant boost to their net run rate. Winning the toss and electing to bowl first, GT captain Shubman Gill saw his decision vindicated as the RCB batting lineup struggled for the first time in IPL 2026.
Although Virat Kohli briefly threatened with a brisk 28 off 13 balls, including five consecutive boundaries off Kagiso Rabada, the momentum shifted rapidly after his dismissal. Devdutt Padikkaltop-scored for RCB with 40 off 24 balls, but a middle-order collapse saw the visitors slide from 71/2 to 96/6.
GT's Arshad Khan was the standout bowler, claiming 3/22, while the experienced Jason Holder and Rashid Khan took two wickets apiece to bundle RCB out for 155 in 19.2 overs.
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Gill & Buttler give Titans strong start despite Bhuvneshwar's 3 wickets
The Titans' response was characterized by early aggression. Shubman Gill set the tone with a rapid 43 off 18 balls, while Jos Buttler contributed a valuable 39 off 19 deliveries, featuring four towering sixes. Despite a valiant effort from RCB's Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who finished with impressive figures of 3/28, the Titans remained in control.
Impact Player Rahul Tewatia played a vital role in the closing stages, remaining unbeaten with 27 off 17 balls*. He, alongside Rashid Khan, safely guided GT to a total of 158/6 in just 15.5 overs. For his all-round contribution, scoring 12 runs and taking 2 wickets for 29 runs, Jason Holder was named the Player of the Match.
This victory keeps Gujarat Titans firmly in contention for a playoff spot as the tournament approaches its clear phase.