IPL 2026 Qualifier 1: RCB vs GT — head-to-head, injuries, key stats and everything you need to know

The stage is set for a blockbuster clash in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lock horns with Gujarat Titans (GT) for a direct place in the IPL 2026 final.

Both teams finished the league stage with nine wins each, but RCB secured the top spot due to a superior net run rate.

With a place in the final on the line and another opportunity still available for the losing side through Qualifier 2, both franchises will be aiming to deliver their best performance in Dharamsala.

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Match details, head-to-head record, and conditions

When: May 26, 2026 — 7:30 PM IST

Where: HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala

The head-to-head record between the two sides remains perfectly balanced, with both teams winning four matches each.

Interestingly, every previous meeting between RCB and GT in IPL history has been won by the side batting second.

Dharamsala has also heavily favoured chasing teams under lights this season, with both Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians successfully chasing targets above 200 at the venue.

However, RCB did win their only game at this venue earlier in the season after batting first, although that encounter was played during the daytime.

The weather is expected to remain pleasant compared to the extreme heat across North India, though there is a slight possibility of rain around 5 PM.

Team news and injuries

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB suffered a major setback ahead of the playoffs after Jacob Bethell was ruled out due to a finger injury.

Meanwhile, Phil Salt is fit again after missing a significant part of the second half of the season, although captain Rajat Patidar remained non-committal regarding his inclusion.

RCB will heavily rely on experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has outstanding T20 numbers against GT’s top-order stars.

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Bhuvneshwar has dismissed Jos Buttler nine times and Shubman Gill five times in T20 cricket.

He also removed Gill, Buttler and Sai Sudharsan in the previous meeting between the two teams.

Gujarat Titans (GT)

GT have no fresh injury concerns heading into the playoffs.

The Titans are likely to continue targeting Patidar with aggressive short-ball tactics after successfully troubling him in the Ahmedabad fixture earlier this season.

With bowlers like Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna available, GT possess a strong pace attack capable of exploiting middle-over pressure.