In match number 34 of IPL 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru took on Gujarat Titans, and batting first, the Shubman Army posted an above-par 205/3, thanks to a sensational century from Sai Sudharsan, who scored 100 off 58 balls and anchored the innings brilliantly. Shubman Gill contributed 32 runs, providing a steady start at the top.
Despite being well set at 170/2 in 16 overs, GT lost momentum in the death overs, managing only a modest finish before a late push. Jason Holder added a quick cameo at the end to take the total past 200.
RCB bowlers restrict late acceleration
RCB’s bowling unit did well to pull things back in the final overs after being under pressure for most of the innings. Tight spells in the death overs ensured GT couldn’t fully capitalise on Sudharsan’s century, which eventually proved crucial in a high-scoring contest.
Kohli - Padikkal duo dominates
Chasing 206, RCB got a dream start through Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal. Kohli played a masterclass knock of 81 off 44 balls, while Padikkal smashed 55 off 27 balls, stitching a crucial 115-run partnership that put RCB firmly in control.
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RCB raced to 141/1 in 13 overs, virtually sealing the chase before a brief middle-order wobble added some late drama. After the dismissals of Kohli and Padikkal, GT managed to pick up quick wickets to create tension. However, contributions from the lower middle order ensured there were no last-over hiccups as RCB reached 206/5 in 18.5 overs, winning by five wickets with seven balls to spare.
Key moments and RCB moved to second position
The dropped catch of Kohli early in his innings proved costly as he went on to play a match-winning knock. GT’s failure to accelerate in the death overs also hurt their chances, leaving 15–20 runs on the table in a game decided in the final overs.
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With this win, Royal Challengers Bengaluru moved up to second place in the points table, strengthening their playoff push. Kohli’s 81 also helped him regain the Orange Cap, continuing his stellar run in IPL 2026.
