Rajasthan Royals’ impressive IPL 2026 journey came to a painful end after a defeat against Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2. The loss denied the Royals a place in the final and extended their wait for a second Indian Premier League title, with their only triumph still dating back to the inaugural season in 2008. Despite several memorable performances throughout the campaign, Rajasthan were unable to overcome a dominant Gujarat side in the knockout clash.
Following the match, Royals captain Riyan Parag reflected on the defeat and highlighted the factors that ultimately tilted the contest in Gujarat’s favour.
Riyan Parag opens up on reasons of defeat against Gujarat Titans in Qulifier 2
Speaking after the game, Parag admitted that Rajasthan’s total of 214/6 was competitive but not quite enough for a high-pressure playoff encounter. According to the skipper, the team had an opportunity to push towards a much bigger score during the latter stages of the innings but failed to fully capitalize.
Parag explained that the pitch offered some assistance to spinners and slower deliveries during the first innings, making batting slightly tricky. However, conditions improved considerably in the second innings after the surface was rolled, allowing Gujarat’s batters to play with greater freedom. The RR captain felt a target in the range of 230 to 240 could have placed Gujarat under significant pressure. He pointed out that in knockout matches, even an additional 15 to 20 runs can have a massive impact on the outcome.
“It was a par score. I think 215 was defendable but I felt the wicket got a little better in the second innings after the heavy roller. In the first innings, I felt the spinners had a little bit more grip and the shorter, slower balls were sticking up a bit more. So I feel it was a passable score, but it could have been better. At one stage it looked as if 230 was on the cards, which in these big games can make a difference – those extra 15-20 runs. I think 230-240 would have made that chase really challenging,” said Parag at post-match chat.
Another major reason identified by Parag was Rajasthan’s inability to break Gujarat’s opening partnership early in the chase. Knowing the strength of Gujarat’s batting unit, the Royals had entered the field aware that early wickets would be crucial. However, the plan never materialized as Gujarat’s openers dominated from the outset. Without early breakthroughs, Rajasthan’s bowlers struggled to create pressure, allowing the chase to remain firmly under Gujarat’s control. Parag acknowledged that once the Titans’ opening pair settled in, the challenge became increasingly difficult for his side. The lack of wickets in the powerplay eventually left Rajasthan chasing the game rather than dictating it.
“But with 215, given their batting lineup, we knew we had to get the openers early, which we didn’t. And it was always going to be a tough road after that,” added Parag.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi shines despite early setback
Earlier in the evening, Rajasthan Royals recovered brilliantly after a disastrous start. Opting to bat first, they lost two wickets for just nine runs and appeared in serious trouble. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi once again showcased his remarkable talent with a breathtaking 96 off 47 deliveries. The 15-year-old played a fearless innings packed with attacking strokes and helped rebuild the Royals’ innings.
The finishing touches were provided by Donovan Ferreira, whose unbeaten 38 from just 11 balls injected late momentum into the total. Thanks to their efforts, Rajasthan posted a formidable 214/6 from 20 overs.
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Shubman Gill’s century powers Titans into the final
Despite the challenging target, Gujarat Titans produced a batting masterclass. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a magnificent 104 off 53 balls, combining elegance and aggression throughout his innings. Gill received excellent support from Sai Sudharsan, who struck 58 off 32 deliveries. The duo stitched together a match-defining 167-run opening stand that effectively sealed the contest. Gujarat eventually reached 219/3 in just 18.4 overs, completing a comfortable chase and booking their place in the IPL 2026 final.
With the victory, Gujarat Titans advanced to the championship match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, while Rajasthan Royals were left to reflect on a campaign that showed great promise but ended agonizingly short of the ultimate prize.
