IPL 2026 RCB vs GT Qualifier 1 Preview: Pitch, Weather Report, Head To Head, Playing 11, Prediction. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Gujarat in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2026. The high-pressure clash promises exciting cricket. Both teams finished the league stage with 18 points. RCB secured the top position through a superior net run rate. The winning team will reach the IPL 2026 final. Meanwhile, the losing side will get another opportunity in Qualifier 2. The match will take place on May 26 at Dharamsala. The contest starts at 7:30 PM IST. Fans can watch the game on Star Sports Network. Live streaming will remain available on JioHotstar.
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Pitch and Weather Report
The Dharamsala pitch has supported batters throughout this season. The surface provides excellent bounce and quick outfield conditions. Fast bowlers could receive early swing under cool evening weather. However, batting becomes easier after the powerplay overs. Teams may prefer chasing because of possible dew conditions. A first-innings score above 190 could become competitive here. Big hitters from both teams could enjoy the conditions greatly.
The weather forecast looks positive for cricket fans. Rain interruption remains unlikely during the playoff clash. The evening temperature should stay comfortable throughout the match.
Head-to-Head Record
RCB and GT have shared a balanced rivalry so far. Both teams have won four matches each in IPL history. Their recent meetings produced several close and entertaining contests. Fans will expect another thrilling battle in Qualifier 1.
Probable Playing XI
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt/Venkatesh Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma.
Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, R Sai Kishore, Jason Holder.
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Match Prediction
Virat Kohli remains RCB’s biggest batting weapon before this important playoff clash. Josh Hazlewood could trouble Gujarat’s top order with early swing bowling. Gujarat Titans will depend heavily on Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan.
Both teams appear evenly matched before this knockout contest. However, RCB’s bowling attack looks slightly stronger. Their recent momentum also gives them a small advantage. Royal Challengers Bengaluru could edge Gujarat Titans in a close playoff battle.