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Former Simon Doull opened up on who could hold the edge in the blockbuster Qualifier 1 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
The high-voltage clash is set to take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala, on Tuesday, with a direct spot in the IPL 2026 final on the line.
Both teams finished the league stage with nine wins each from 14 games, but RCB secured the top spot courtesy of a superior net run rate.
Simon Doull predicts what could decide RCB vs GT Qualifier 1
Doull believes the Powerplay in the first innings could prove to be the deciding factor in the contest.
According to the former New Zealand pacer, the team that dominates the first six overs is likely to gain control of the match and eventually book a place in the final.
"Whoever wins the Powerplay in the first innings will go on to win the match. That is my belief."
Doull also highlighted how evenly matched both teams are heading into the playoffs.
"Both GT and RCB have strong batting lineups and quality bowling attacks. This is going to be a tight contest."
The former cricketer added that both teams are carrying excellent momentum into the knockout stage and possess multiple match-winners capable of changing the game quickly.
"Both teams are in great form and carrying winning momentum into the playoffs. Each side has match-winners who can change the game in a matter of overs."
Doull especially focused on the battle between Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, claiming the player who bats longer and scores more runs could ultimately decide the outcome.
"One team has Virat Kohli, the other has Shubman Gill. Both are in red-hot form. The battle between Kohli and Gill could decide the outcome. Whichever batter scores more runs and stays longer at the crease will likely take his team through."
Simon Doull also stressed the importance of a strong Powerplay start in pressure playoff matches.
"If the openers can get through the first six overs without much damage and put up 60 or 70 runs, it puts the opposition under immediate pressure. In playoff cricket, it often comes down to which superstar steps up when it matters most."
GT carry momentum while RCB look to bounce back after heavy defeat
The defending champions, RCB head into the Qualifier 1 clash after suffering a heavy 55-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league-stage match.
Despite the loss, Bengaluru still managed to finish at the top of the points table with nine wins and five defeats.
On the other hand, Gujarat Titans come into the playoffs with strong momentum after registering a dominant 89-run victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their final league game.
Also Read: Yash Dayal breaks silence on RCB retention and admits IPL 2026 snub ‘wasn't my decision'
Both teams have looked dangerous throughout IPL 2026, making the Qualifier 1 clash one of the most anticipated matches of the season.
The winner of the contest will directly qualify for the IPL 2026 final, while the losing side will still get another opportunity through Qualifier 2.
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