Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into the Indian Premier League 2026 final with a thumping 92-run win over Gujarat Titans in Dharamshala on Tuesday night, confirming their dominance in the high-pressure playoff encounter. The emphatic win not only sealed their place in the second consecutive final, but also led to an emotional scene between franchise stalwarts Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, which quickly went viral.

rcb vs gt: highlight | score board

For the fans inside the HPCA Stadium and the millions watching online, the defining image came after the final ball when Virat Kohli was seen hugging former teammate and RCB star GretaT AB de Villiers. The heartfelt embrace between the franchise’s two most iconic figures immediately caused a stir on social media, with supporters calling de Villiers the team’s “lucky charm” and a symbolic presence in their journey back to the top.

The South African legend was also present during RCB’s maiden IPL title win last season, further strengthening the belief among fans that his association brings good luck to the franchise. Kohli and De Villiers, who formed one of the most dangerous partnerships in IPL history, once again reminded everyone of their enduring bond. Their relationship spans years of shared success, heartbreak and record-breaking performances that defined an era for the Bengaluru-based team.

The duo’s legacy includes some unforgettable stands, Most notably the 229-run partnership and the explosive innings of 215 runs against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Pitted against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede in 2015. Moments like these have long cemented their place in IPL folklore, making their post-match embrace in 2026 feel like a continuation of a story that fans never want to end.

One fan expressed the sentiment on social media, writing that Kohli and de Villiers’ journey “has seen everything – from tears in 2016 to warm embraces in 2026,” adding that it felt as if “it was 17 years in the making.” Another post said, “AB wasn’t there to lift the trophy with them, but now he’s here to defend the title.”

Will RCB defend the title?

RCB performed tremendously on the field. Captain Rajat Patidar once again led from the front with a brilliant inning of 93 runs in 33 balls, helping the team reach a record-breaking 254 runs in 20 overs – the highest ever score in an IPL playoff match. Gujarat Titans had no answer to this attack as RCB bowlers took charge in the second innings.

bowling unit led Bhuvneshwar Kumar ensured that there was no way back Gujarat. Their disciplined attack and sharp execution under the lights at the HPCA Stadium led to a comprehensive win, giving RCB fans a chance to enjoy every moment of an almost perfect night in Dharamshala.

With this emphatic win, RCB is now just one win away from becoming the third franchise in IPL history after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to successfully defend the title. The stage is now set for another high-voltage final, with Bengaluru carrying both the momentum and emotion into the summit clash.

ipl 2026 | ipl schedule | ipl points table | ipl player stats | purple cap | orange cap | ipl video | cricket news | live score

– ends