Royal Challengers Bengaluru are yet one step from winning the IPL trophy and captain Rajat Patidar is now a part of the franchise history. RCB secured a position in the IPL 2026 final with a stellar 26-run win over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 of the tournament at Dharamsala.
The win was more than just a trip to another final. It further reinforced Patidar’s emerging reputation as a captain and added another feather to his cap as a leader with the franchise.
Bengaluru have made the final of the IPL a number of times in the past but this time around is different owing to the consistency displayed by Patidar. Earlier, the RCB had titles fights with veteran names like Anil Kumble, Daniel Vettori and Virat Kohli, but this is the first time Patidar has done so.
He is the first captain to lead Bengaluru to two IPL Finals in the franchise history with this qualification. The achievement has put him in a special class among the RCB leaders and also reflects the kind of impact he has made since he has been named RCB’s leader.
He is also a strong playoff player. Patidar has taken his team Bengaluru forward in knockout matches and pressure situations. RCB under Patidar have displayed a different level of composure in the playoffs as many captains were unable to turn their appearances into wins.
The team has now come together for its fifth IPL tournament finals appearance. Past trips have had mixed results — mostly heartbreak, with an eventual championship win last year. The franchise is now just one win away from defending its title.
Patidar’s journey has also been one of the most promising this IPL season. It’s been a rapid turnaround in the past two seasons, from a reliable middle order batsman to a captain who has turned the tables for the team.
RCB supporters will now hope the story gets the perfect ending. Getting to the final is one thing but to come back with a win would make Patidar one of the most successful leaders in the franchise’s history.
Till now, Bengaluru supporters were celebrating a milestone – their skipper has accomplished something before no RCB captain.