Daijiworld Media Network - Dharamsala

Dharamsala, May 25: The stage is set for the playoffs of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals securing spots in the top four.

Among the standout teams this season has been Gujarat Titans, who recovered strongly after an inconsistent start to finish second in the points table and qualify for Qualifier 1.

Ahead of the playoffs, former India cricketer Piyush Chawla praised GT skipper Shubman Gill for his captaincy and tactical awareness.

“For any captain, rotating your bowling and batting options effectively is crucial. You may have the weapons, but knowing when to use them at the right moment is what separates good captains from great ones. Shubman Gill has done that job brilliantly this season. He has captained with great authority and clarity. That is exactly what you want from your leader – not just a captain, but a leader who guides the team on the field,” Chawla said on JioHotstar.

Gujarat Titans will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on May 26.

The winner of the clash will advance directly to the IPL 2026 final, while the losing side will get another opportunity through Qualifier 2 to book a place in the title clash.