Cricket
-Gaurav Sharma
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final, sealing a second straight IPL title. Chasing 156 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, RCB reached the target inside 18 overs, led by Virat Kohli’s 42-ball 75.
The result thrilled RCB supporters across Karnataka, yet also triggered a venue row. Karnataka Chief Minister designate DK Shivakumar congratulated the team, while questioning why the decisive match was not held at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium and hinting at political interference.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their second consecutive IPL title, defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the 2026 final held in Ahmedabad, where Virat Kohli scored 75. The venue choice triggered political discussion from Karnataka leaders.
Political reactions to RCB IPL title and Ahmedabad venue choice
DK Shivakumar, a senior Congress leader and poised to be CM, suggested the decision to stage the final in Gujarat had political roots, without naming the Bharatiya Janata Party. Addressing reporters on 1 June, Shivakumar said, “Injustice has not been done to RCB. Injustice has been done to Bengaluru and Karnataka youngsters. The (IPL) final was supposed to be played here. But it happened in Ahmedabad… Whatever happened last time, we have all forgotten it and have started a new beginning,” outlining disappointment over missed opportunities for local fans.
Despite the criticism of the venue, Shivakumar publicly praised RCB’s success and the backing from supporters. Posting on X, previously Twitter, Shivakumar wrote, “Tonight, Bengaluru rises again as champions!” In another message, Shivakumar added, “RCB has created history by clinching a second consecutive IPL title. With grit, composure, and the heart of true champions, the team has once again made Bengaluru proud.”
Leaders hail RCB IPL title as aggressive campaign pays off
Outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also applauded the franchise, highlighting RCB’s positive intent through the tournament as the key factor in the final triumph over Gujarat Titans. Siddaramaiah said, “This victory, earned through a united team effort, has created a festive atmosphere in the homes of RCB fans everywhere,” noting how celebrations spread well beyond Bengaluru.
On the field, RCB controlled the chase after Gujarat Titans posted 155, setting a 156-run target in the IPL 2026 final. Kohli guided the reply with a fluent 75 and received the player of the match award. Rajasthan Royals batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi finished the season as player of the series for sustained performances.
| Match | Team | Score / Target | Key Performer | Award |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Final | Gujarat Titans | 155 runs | – | Set 156-run target |
| IPL 2026 Final | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 156/5 in 18 overs | Virat Kohli – 75 (42) | Player of the Match |
| Tournament | Rajasthan Royals | – | Vaibhav Sooryavanshi | Player of the Series |
RCB’s second consecutive IPL title strengthened the team’s connection with supporters in Bengaluru and across Karnataka, even as the Ahmedabad venue choice remained a political talking point. For many fans and leaders, the trophy, Kohli’s match-winning innings and Sooryavanshi’s season award defined the night.
