- By Namrata Vijay
- Tue, 26 May 2026 08:17 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
RCB vs GT IPL 2026 Qualifier 1: The reigning champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will face the Gujarat Titans in the first Qualifier of the ongoing season. The winner of this match will directly qualify for the final, hosted later this week in Ahmedabad. In contrast, the losing team will get one more opportunity to reach the final by playing the Eliminator winner in Qualifier 2. This gives both the winner of Qualifier 1 and the second-chance teams a signi. The thrill of finishing in the top two is unmistakable. Only a single team has ever defied the odds from this position to hoist the IPL trophy under intense pressure. Sunrisers Hyderabad's unforgettable IPL 2016 campaign saw them brave the Eliminator and Qualifier 2, and ultimately lift their maiden title amid raucous celebration. 2, and the summit clash to win their first title.
As for the matches between the top two teams, history shows that whichever team has won the first Qualifier has often gone on to win the title.
The chance to play an extra match in Qualifier 2 often does not result in a title win. Since the introduction of the playoff system in IPL 2011, the team that wins the first Qualifier has usually gone on to win the title, underscoring the importance of securing victory in that match, as it provides direct access to the final, while others must take a tougher route.
Just three teams have won the trophy after losing the first Qualifier: the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2013. This gripping pattern endures season after season: the team emerging victorious in the first Qualifier often rides a wave of belief to claim the title. The Rajat Patidar-led side was the last to accomplish this, overcoming immense pressure to beat the Punjab-based franchise and secure a place in the season's grand finale. Both teams fought tooth and nail through the group stage to amass 18 points in 14 matches, but the illustrious Bengaluru-based franchise soared to the top thanks to a remarkable NRR. Their dominance has ignited the hopes and nerves of passionate fans everywhere. This year, both teams struck fear and admiration in opponents' hearts. Their journeys could not have been more different—RCB's campaign dazzled fans with fearless batting and renewed bowling prowess, igniting dreams of ultimate glory that burn brighter than ever before. Their lineup compared to previous editions.
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The Shubman Gill-led side powered into the playoffs on the back of an impressive bowling lineup and a top-order that withstood pressure. Captain Shubman Gill, star opener Sai Sudharsan, and wicket-keeper batter Jos Buttler have fused solidity and firepower during their stint.