Dharamshala, May 25 -- The IPL 2026 playoffs open with a narrative that feels larger than a single match, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans face off in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday night, where thin air, short boundaries, and high scoring have already shaped this season's identity.
For Bengaluru, this is more than a place in the final. It is a continuation of a redemption arc that began with their title win last season and now stretches into the pressure of defending it. Finishing the league stage at the top has given them momentum, but it has also placed a target on their backs.
At the heart of their campaign remains the familiar spine of Virat Kohli's consistency, Phil Salt's aggression, and Rajat Patidar's stabilising presenc...