Shubman Gill’s century takes Gujarat Titans to IPL 2026 final – Shubman Gill Century Propels Gujarat Titans into IPL 2026 Final
A Captain’s Knock at the Mullanpur Stadium
In what will be remembered as one of the most dominant displays in IPL playoff history, Shubman Gill led from the front to guide the Gujarat Titans into the IPL 2026 final. Chasing a formidable target of 215 on a typically slow track in New Chandigarh, the Titans made light work of the Rajasthan Royals’ bowling attack, securing a comprehensive seven-wicket victory with 1.2 overs to spare.
Gill Makes History
Shubman Gill’s innings was nothing short of legendary. Scoring his fifth IPL century in a high-stakes knockout match, Gill became the first captain in the history of the Indian Premier League to register a hundred during a playoff fixture. His 104 runs off just 53 balls were punctuated by 15 stylish fours and 3 massive sixes. The Gujarat Titans captain dominated the proceedings, ensuring the required run rate never spiraled out of control.
His opening partnership with Sai Sudharsan set the tone for the entire chase. The duo put together a massive 167-run opening stand that essentially broke the back of the Rajasthan Royals’ morale. Sudharsan, who had been in fine form throughout the tournament, contributed a brisk 58 off 32 deliveries. Interestingly, Sudharsan’s dismissal was a rare sight, as he was once again out ‘hit-wicket’ off the bowling of Brijesh Sharma—his second such dismissal in consecutive playoff matches following the Qualifier 1 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
The Rajasthan Royals’ Fighting Total
Earlier in the evening, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag won the toss and elected to bat first. The start was far from ideal for the Royals, as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel were sent back to the pavilion with only 9 runs on the board. However, the innings was stabilized by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played what many experts are calling the most challenging and gritty innings of his career. Sooryavanshi scored a breathtaking 96 off 47 balls, hitting 8 fours and 7 sixes to propel the Royals to a competitive total.
The middle order saw Ravindra Jadeja promoted up the order. Despite suffering an injury that forced him to retire hurt temporarily, Jadeja returned to the crease to provide crucial stability, finishing unbeaten on 45 off 35 balls. Donovan Ferreira provided the final fireworks, smashing 38 not out from just 11 deliveries, which included 4 sixes and 2 fours, to set the Titans a target of 215.
Bowling Performances
For the Gujarat Titans, the bowling unit faced a stiff challenge against the in-form Royals batters. Jason Holder stood out as the most economical and effective bowler, finishing with figures of 2/27 from his 4 overs. Kagiso Rabada also maintained his composure under pressure, claiming 2 wickets for 35 runs. While Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna proved to be expensive, they each managed to pick up a wicket during the innings.
Looking Ahead to the Final
With the chase completed in just 18.4 overs, the Gujarat Titans have cemented their place in the championship decider. The momentum is firmly on the side of the Titans as they prepare to face the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 final. The showdown is scheduled to take place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31, where the cricketing world will wait to see if Gill can lead his team to ultimate glory.
Key Match Highlights:
- Shubman Gill: 104 off 53 balls (First captain to score an IPL playoff century)
- Sai Sudharsan: 58 off 32 balls (Dismissed hit-wicket for the second consecutive time)
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: 96 off 47 balls
- Jason Holder: 2/27 in 4 overs
- Final Match: Gujarat Titans vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, May 31 at Narendra Modi Stadium.
