“It feels superb”: Rajat Patidar Rajat ecstatic as RCB clinch back-to-back IPL t
A Historic Triumph in Ahmedabad
In a spectacular display of cricketing dominance, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have successfully defended their title, becoming only the third team in the history of the Indian Premier League to achieve back-to-back championship victories. Joining the illustrious company of the Chennai Super Kings and the Mumbai Indians, the Bengaluru side showcased incredible resilience and tactical brilliance under the leadership of Rajat Patidar.
The final, held at the high-stakes venue of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, was a rematch of sorts, taking place on the very soil where RCB claimed their inaugural title just a year prior. Despite the home advantage favoring the Gujarat Titans, the momentum rested firmly with the defending champions, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of cricket.
The Tactical Masterclass
Rajat Patidar, showing maturity beyond his years as captain, elected to bowl first upon winning the toss. Observing a tricky surface, the RCB leadership team identified the need to restrict the dangerous Gujarat Titans top order, led by Sai Sudharshan and Shubman Gill, while keeping a watchful eye on the explosive Josh Buttler. The plan was executed to perfection.
The RCB bowling attack was clinical, dismantling the Titans’ lineup with precision. The Gujarat batting unit struggled to find rhythm and could only muster 155 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. While Washington Sundar provided some resistance with a fighting unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, the RCB bowlers were relentless. Rasikh Salam was the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets at a stingy economy rate of 6.75, while the experienced duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood chipped in with two wickets apiece to strangle the opposition.
Kohli Anchors the Chase
Chasing 156 for victory, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru received a vibrant start from Venkatesh Iyer and the ever-reliable Virat Kohli. Though Gujarat Titans fought back bravely mid-innings, securing the wickets of Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, and Krunal Pandya, the composure of the team remained unshaken.
As the pressure mounted, the legendary ‘Chase-Master’ Virat Kohli stood tall. Supported by a crucial cameo from Tim David, Kohli navigated the team toward the target with masterful stroke play. Finishing the game with an unbeaten 75 off just 42 deliveries—featuring nine boundaries and three towering sixes—Kohli guided his team to a 5-wicket victory with 12 balls to spare.
Captain Patidar’s Reflection
Post-match, an elated Rajat Patidar reflected on the emotional significance of the win. “It feels superb,” the captain remarked. “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 win the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP, Suyash, and Shepherd bowled, they were excellent throughout the tournament.”
Patidar also opened up about his personal journey into the leadership role. “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 tried to analyze which shots are good for me. I received so many helpful inputs from Dinesh Karthik, who is always there for the team.”
Legacy of the Champions
This victory is not just a triumph of individual brilliance but a testament to the comprehensive team-building efforts put in by the RCB management and coaching staff. By successfully defending their crown, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru have signaled a new era of dominance in the IPL. The blend of seasoned veterans like Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, combined with the tactical acumen of Rajat Patidar, has proven to be an unstoppable force. As the celebrations begin in Bengaluru, fans will look back at this 2026 campaign as one of the most clinical and well-executed seasons in the history of the sport.
Rohan Kapoor is a cricket editor and sports content analyst based in New Delhi with over 6 years of experience covering IPL, T20 leagues, and international cricket. He specializes in match analysis, player statistics, and tactical breakdowns, bringing data-driven insights to modern cricket audiences across India.
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