The much-awaited IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans will take place today at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. Both teams finished the league stage strongly and are now fighting for a direct place in the IPL 2026 Final. Cricket fans are expecting a high-scoring thriller as both sides feature explosive batting lineups and experienced bowlers.
Possible Playing XI for RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are likely to continue with their balanced combination of experienced batters and quality pace attack. The biggest talking point remains the fitness of Phil Salt, who is reportedly under observation ahead of the match.
Predicted RCB Playing XI
- Virat Kohli
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Rajat Patidar (C)
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Krunal Pandya
- Romario Shepherd
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Suyash Sharma
- Rasikh Salam Dar
Impact Player: Tim David
RCB’s batting strength lies in Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar, while Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will lead the bowling attack. Dharamsala’s pitch is expected to assist fast bowlers early in the innings, making Hazlewood a key player.
Possible Playing XI for GT
Gujarat Titans are expected to field a strong and settled lineup led by captain Shubman Gill. Their top order has been one of the best in the tournament this season.
Predicted GT Playing XI
- Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Jos Buttler (WK)
- Nishant Sindhu
- Washington Sundar
- Jason Holder
- Rahul Tewatia
- Rashid Khan
- Kagiso Rabada
- Arshad Khan
- Mohammed Siraj
Impact Player: Prasidh Krishna
GT’s top order featuring Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler has consistently delivered throughout the tournament. Their bowling unit, including Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Mohammed Siraj, gives them an edge in pressure situations.
Pitch Report and Match Expectations
The HPCA Stadium pitch in Dharamsala is expected to favor batters, with scores above 200 becoming common this season. However, pacers could get swing and bounce during the first few overs because of the cool weather conditions.
Fans can expect an intense battle between Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj, while Rashid Khan versus RCB’s middle order could decide the outcome of the match. Since this is a Qualifier 1 encounter, the winning team will directly qualify for the IPL 2026 Final, adding even more excitement to the contest.
