Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced another outstanding innings of 96, but Gujarat Titans chased down 215 to eliminate the Rajasthan Royals and book a place in the IPL 2026 final.
New Chandigarh | By Niaz Shinwari
Gujarat Titans secured a seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League 2026, chasing a formidable target of 215 with eight balls remaining to advance to the tournament final.
The match was highlighted by two exceptional batting performances. Rajasthan’s teenage sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, continued his remarkable season with a brilliant 96 off 47 deliveries, while Gujarat captain Shubman Gill responded with a match-winning century to guide his side into the championship decider.
After being reduced to 9-2 early in their innings, Rajasthan found stability through the 15-year-old Sooryavanshi. Facing a disciplined attack led by Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, the young left-hander displayed maturity beyond his years. He weathered a challenging opening spell before accelerating dramatically, striking seven sixes and anchoring the Royals’ recovery.
Sooryavanshi’s innings ended agonizingly short of a century when he was dismissed for 96, but his efforts helped Rajasthan post a competitive total of 214-6. Donovan Ferreira provided a late boost with an explosive 38 from just 11 balls.
In reply, Gujarat Titans produced a commanding batting display. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a superb 104 from 53 balls, registering the fastest century by a Gujarat Titans player in IPL history. He was well supported by Sai Sudharsan, who contributed 58 off 32 deliveries as the pair added 167 runs for the opening wicket.
Although Jofra Archer eventually removed Gill in the 15th over, Gujarat remained firmly in control. Jos Buttler and Rahul Tewatia completed the chase comfortably, ensuring the 2022 champions reached their third IPL final in five seasons.
The victory sets up a title clash against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Ahmedabad. Bengaluru had earlier defeated Gujarat Titans by 92 runs in Qualifier 1.
Sooryavanshi has emerged as one of the breakthrough stars of IPL 2026. The 15-year-old now has 776 runs this season and has impressed cricket experts with his fearless approach against high-quality fast bowling.
Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop praised the youngster’s courage and development, noting his intense practice sessions against England pacer Jofra Archer and his ability to counter short-pitched bowling despite targeted plans from opposition teams.
Despite Rajasthan Royals’ exit, Sooryavanshi’s performances throughout the tournament have established him as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket and a player to watch in the years ahead.