In a commanding run-chase at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Gujarat Titans The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match 42 with confidence as it outclassed Royal Challengers Bangalore to chase 156 runs.
After losing the toss, RCB got a chance to bat first, but their innings never gained sustained momentum. Despite a promising start, the batting unit failed to build partnerships and suffered a middle-order collapse at a crucial juncture.
Virat Kohli looked in good form early on and scored 28 runs in 13 balls, while Devdutt Padikkal played a quickfire inning of 40 runs. However, once the top order was out, wickets fell rapidly. Contributions from Rajat Patidar (19) and Romario Shepherd (17) were not enough to revive the innings as RCB were all out for 155 in 19.2 overs.
For GT, it was a collective bowling effort. Arshad Khan took three wickets, while Rashid Khan and Jason Holder took two wickets each to keep RCB in check.
In response, Gujarat Titans started aggressively. Shubman Gill led from the front with a brilliant inning of 43 runs off 18 balls, while Jos Buttler continued the attack with a quickfire 39 runs. Both ensured that the GT remained well ahead of the required rate.
Although RCB managed to take a few wickets thanks to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, GT's depth came to the fore. Rahul Tewatia played the role of finisher very well and scored unbeaten 27 runs to help his team win by four wickets in just 15.5 overs.
Key moments of Match 42 of IPL 2026:
RCB's middle order collapsed
RCB's innings was derailed by a dramatic middle-order collapse after a steady start. Once Kohli and Padikkal were out, players like Jitesh Sharma, Tim David and Krunal Pandya Failed to make an impact. Gujarat's bowlers continued to apply pressure, with Rashid Khan and Arshad Khan striking at regular intervals. RCB rapidly lost momentum in this phase, preventing them from reaching a more competitive total.
Gill, Butler took charge of the chase
The chase was defined by the aggressive approach of Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler. Gill's explosive strokeplay in the powerplay put RCB on the backfoot early on, while Buttler supported them with his attacking intent. Their partnership ensured that GT remained ahead of the required run rate, effectively taking the game away from RCB in the first half of the innings.
'Finisher' Tewatia completed the job
With the top-order laying a strong foundation, Rahul Tewatia once again showcased his finishing ability. Going through some tough times, he maintained his composure and found boundaries at crucial moments. His unbeaten 27 ensured there was no let-up late on, as the GT crossed the finish line comfortably with plenty of extra luggage.
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