“It feels superb”: Rajat Patidar Rajat ecstatic as RCB clinch back-to-back IPL titles

A Historic Defense for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

In a display of absolute dominance, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have etched their name into the history books by successfully defending their Indian Premier League (IPL) title. Under the leadership of captain Rajat Patidar, RCB achieved back-to-back championship victories, a feat previously accomplished only by the Chennai Super Kings and the Mumbai Indians. The 2026 IPL final, held at the daunting Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, served as the theater for this monumental achievement as Bengaluru systematically dismantled the Gujarat Titans.

Dominance at the Narendra Modi Stadium

Despite playing away from their home turf, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru showcased why they are currently the most formidable unit in the tournament. The atmosphere in Ahmedabad was electric, with the home crowd cheering for the Gujarat Titans, yet the RCB squad remained unfazed. Rajat Patidar, reading the pitch conditions perfectly, elected to bowl first. The surface appeared tricky, and his decision proved to be a masterstroke as the RCB bowling attack executed their plans with surgical precision.

The Gujarat Titans’ batting lineup, known for their explosiveness, struggled to gain any momentum. The RCB bowlers focused on dismantling the top order, effectively silencing the home crowd. Rasikh Salam was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 3 wickets in his 4-over spell at an impressive economy rate of 6.75. He was well-supported by the seasoned duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who both claimed two wickets each, restricting the Titans to a total of 155 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Only Washington Sundar provided any resistance for the Titans, fighting to a hard-earned 50 off 37 deliveries.

The Chase Master Seals the Victory

Chasing 156 for victory, RCB knew that a composed start was essential. Venkatesh Iyer and Virat Kohli provided a flying start after a cautious first over. While the Gujarat Titans attempted to claw their way back into the game by removing Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Patidar, and Krunal Pandya in quick succession, the match belonged to one man. Virat Kohli, true to his reputation as the ultimate chase-master, anchored the innings with unwavering focus.

Kohli’s unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, punctuated by nine boundaries and three sixes, ensured that the required run rate never escalated into a panic situation. With vital support from Tim David, Kohli guided Bengaluru home with 12 balls to spare, securing a 5-wicket victory and confirming their status as the kings of IPL 2026.

Rajat Patidar: A Captain in Awe

Reflecting on the historic win, an ecstatic Rajat Patidar struggled to find words to describe the feeling of leading a successful franchise to consecutive titles. “It feels superb,” the captain remarked following the presentation 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 also touched upon his personal journey, admitting that leading the side was never a part of his original plan. “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 preparation was very good for me. I analyzed which shots suited me best, and the inputs I received from Dinesh Karthik were invaluable. He is always there for the team.”

Legacy of the 2026 Season

This victory signifies a golden era for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. By winning back-to-back titles, they have shed any previous labels of underachievers, replacing them with a reputation for tactical brilliance and mental toughness. As the team celebrates, the cricketing world acknowledges that the current iteration of RCB, built on deep planning and individual brilliance from stalwarts like Virat Kohli, has set a new benchmark for professional T20 cricket.