Dharamsala: Royal Challengers Bengaluru created history in the Indian Premier League 2026 Qualifier 1 by posting a mammoth 254/5 against Gujarat Titans — the highest total ever recorded in an IPL playoff or knockout match.

Led by skipper Rajat Patidar, RCB delivered a batting masterclass that not only shattered records but also marked the first instance of a team crossing the 250-run mark in IPL playoff history.

Patidar leads brutal batting assault

Rajat Patidar was the architect of RCB’s record-breaking total, smashing a sensational 93 off just 33 deliveries. His innings included nine sixes and five fours, highlighting his aggressive approach and ability to dominate under pressure.

Despite being dropped twice during the innings, Patidar made Gujarat Titans pay dearly. His explosive knock turned the game decisively in RCB’s favour, especially during the death overs where the team accelerated dramatically.

RCB plundered 86 runs in the final five overs and 114 runs in the last six overs, showcasing one of the most destructive finishes ever seen in IPL playoffs.

Explosive start sets the tone

RCB began their innings with attacking intent as Venkatesh Iyer took on Mohammed Siraj early, scoring 19 with three boundaries.

However, Kagiso Rabada struck back by dismissing Iyer, bringing Devdutt Padikkal to the crease. Padikkal immediately counterattacked, playing a brisk innings of 30 runs.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a quickfire 43, ensuring RCB maintained a strong run rate. The team reached 76/1 at the end of the powerplay, setting the foundation for a big total.

GT fight back in middle overs

Gujarat Titans briefly regained control during the middle overs with disciplined bowling. Rashid Khan kept things tight, while Jason Holder delivered a crucial double blow, dismissing both Kohli and Padikkal in quick succession.

Kulwant Khejroliya also bowled economically initially, helping GT slow down RCB’s scoring rate and bring the match back into balance.

Momentum shifts after costly errors

The turning point came in the 14th over when Patidar, then on 18 and 20, was dropped twice off Prasidh Krishna. The missed chances proved costly as GT’s fielding began to falter under pressure.

In the following over, Khejroliya conceded 28 runs in a chaotic spell that included misfields, two no-balls, and a wide delivery. This over shifted momentum completely towards RCB.

Patidar capitalised on the reprieve, launching a relentless attack on both pace and spin, including a heavy assault on Rashid Khan.

Strong partnership and dominant finish

Patidar found solid support in Krunal Pandya, with the duo stitching together a rapid 95-run partnership. Krunal contributed a valuable 43 before being dismissed by Rabada.

By then, the damage had already been done. Patidar continued his aggressive strokeplay, bringing up his half-century with a six and maintaining the momentum until the end of the innings.

RCB’s late surge ensured they finished with one of the most dominant totals in IPL playoff history, surpassing the previous record of 233/3 set by Gujarat Titans in 2023.

Record-breaking achievement

The total of 254/5 now stands as:

  • The highest score in IPL playoff/knockout history
  • The first instance of a team crossing 250 in IPL playoffs
  • Among the top totals ever scored by RCB in IPL history

This performance further cements RCB’s reputation as one of the most explosive batting units in the league.

Conclusion

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic total against Gujarat Titans reflects their dominance and fearless approach in the IPL 2026 season. Rajat Patidar’s leadership and match-winning knock were central to this achievement.

With momentum firmly on their side, RCB have sent a strong message to their rivals ahead of the final. If they continue this form, they will remain strong contenders to defend their title and further etch their name in IPL history.