Royal Challengers Bengaluru have moved one step closer to becoming the Indian Premier League champions after a massive 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1. Former India captain Anil Kumble believes RCB’s complete team performance in the knockout clash shows why they are now serious contenders for the TATA IPL 2026 trophy.
Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, Kumble praised the way RCB dominated every department during the playoff match.
“RCB didn’t just win; they made a statement. That is the kind of performance you need in a knockout game.”
According to Kumble, RCB showed real character by posting a massive 254-run total despite losing the toss. He highlighted the captaincy and batting brilliance of Rajat Patidar along with key contributions from Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal.
Loading ...TATA IPL 2026 Winner Race
| Team | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Qualified for Final |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | Playing Eliminator |
| Rajasthan Royals | Playing Eliminator |
| Gujarat Titans | Still alive through playoffs |
Kumble also pointed out that RCB’s strength this season has been collective performances rather than dependence on one or two star players.
“Every match, a new player wins the Man of the Match award. When everyone contributes, you become a champion team.”
The former RCB captain further explained how the absence of Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell unexpectedly helped the team find the right balance. The inclusion of pacer Jacob Duffy has strengthened the bowling attack and provided more flexibility to the playing XI.
Kumble believes this balanced combination has arrived at exactly the right stage of the tournament, especially with the bowling unit supporting the batting consistently.
Meanwhile, tonight’s Eliminator between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals could decide who gets the chance to challenge RCB later in the playoffs.
Kumble feels SRH hold a slight advantage because of their stronger overall squad depth and multiple match-winners. He also highlighted the impact of youngsters Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain in Hyderabad’s successful run this season.
At the same time, Rajasthan Royals will once again depend heavily on rising teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jofra Archer.
Kumble praised Vaibhav’s fearless mindset ahead of the Eliminator and described the 15-year-old as unusually mature for his age.
“Whether it’s a league game or a knockout, his mindset remains the same. That is what makes him so special.”
